Abstract:

An automotive rearview mirror assembly includes an electrochromic
reflective element having a transparent electrical conductor disposed at
a second surface of a first substrate and a mirror reflector disposed at
a third surface of a second substrate. The mirror assembly includes
electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry for controlling dimming of the
electrochromic medium. The mirror assembly may include one or more
features and at least one of the features may share a component with the
electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry and/or share circuitry with the
electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry. The mirror assembly may include
a video camera and/or an on-demand display viewable through the mirror
reflector by the driver of the equipped vehicle when displaying
information and substantially non-viewable by the driver of the equipped
vehicle when not displaying information.

Claims:

1. An automotive rearview mirror assembly suitable for use in a vehicle,
said automotive rearview mirror assembly comprising:an electrochromic
reflective element;wherein said electrochromic reflective element
provides a rearward field of view to a driver of a vehicle equipped with
said automotive rearview mirror assembly;said electrochromic reflective
element comprising an electrochromic medium disposed between a first
substrate and a second substrate;wherein said first substrate is closer
to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said second substrate when
said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped
vehicle;wherein said first substrate has a first surface and a second
surface;wherein said first surface is closer to the driver of the
equipped vehicle than said second surface when said automotive rearview
mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped vehicle;wherein said second
substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface;wherein said third
surface is closer to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said fourth
surface when said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the
equipped vehicle;a transparent electrical conductor disposed at said
second surface of said first substrate;a mirror reflector disposed at
said third surface of said second substrate;said mirror reflector
comprising a metal layer;a plurality of features included in said
automotive rearview mirror assembly;said plurality of features comprising
at least two selected from the group consisting of (i) a video camera,
(ii) a headlamp controller, (iii) a garage door opener, (iv) a component
of an intelligent highway system, (v) a component of a toll transaction
system, (vi) an on-demand display that is viewable through said mirror
reflector by the driver of the equipped vehicle when displaying
information and that is substantially non-viewable by the driver of the
equipped vehicle when not displaying information, (vii) an array of
light-emitting diodes, (viii) a loudspeaker and (ix) an
antenna;electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry for controlling dimming
of said electrochromic medium;wherein at least one of said plurality of
features at least one of (a) shares a component with said electrochromic
mirror dimming circuitry and (b) shares circuitry with said
electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry; andwherein said electrochromic
medium comprises at least one of (i) a viologen, (ii) a phenazine, (iii)
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine, (iv) a heptyl viologen, (v) a
distryrylmethyl viologen, (vi) an ethylhydroxypropyl viologen, (vii)
propylene carbonate, (viii) an ultraviolet stabilizer, (ix) a
phenothiazine, (x) a metallocene, (xi) a cross-linked polymer, (xii) a
plasticizer, (xiii) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecyl viologen
perchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen diperchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol,
ferrocene and 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene
carbonate in combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and
a UV stabilizer, (xiv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecylphenylpropyl
viologen diperchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen diperchlorate and
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene carbonate in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecyl viologen
perchlorate, ethyl viologen perchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol, ferrocene
and 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in a mixture of
tertraethyleneglycol dimethylether and tetramethylenesulfone in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xvi) a cathodic electrochromic compound, (xvii) an anodic
electrochromic compound, (xviii) a cathodic electrochromic compound and
an anodic electrochromic compound and (xix) an electrochromic
cross-linked polymer solid film.

2. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, wherein
at least one of said plurality of features shares a microprocessor with
said electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry.

3. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, wherein
said plurality of features comprises a video camera and a headlamp
controller.

26. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 25, wherein
said plurality of features comprises an on-demand display that is
viewable through said mirror reflector by the driver of the equipped
vehicle when displaying information and that is substantially
non-viewable by the driver of the equipped vehicle when not displaying
information.

28. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 27,
including backlighting.

29. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, wherein
at least one of said first substrate and said second substrate comprises
a glass substrate having a thickness in the range of from about 1 mm to
about 1.8 mm.

30. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, wherein
said first substrate comprises a glass substrate having a thickness in
the range of from about 1 mm to about 1.8 mm and wherein said second
substrate comprises a glass substrate having a thickness in the range of
from about 1 mm to about 1.8 mm.

33. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, wherein
said electrochromic medium comprises a cross-linked polymer formed by
curing within a cavity between said first and second substrates an
electrochromic monomer composition that includes at least one of (a) a
monofunctional monomer and a cross-linking agent and (b) a polyfunctional
monomer capable of cross-linking.

34. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 33, wherein
said electrochromic medium comprises (i) at least one anodic
electrochromic compound and (ii) at least one cathodic electrochromic
compound.

36. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, wherein
said electrochromic medium comprises a cross-linked polymer formed by
curing within a cavity between said first and second substrates a monomer
composition comprising at least one polyol.

37. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, wherein
said electrochromic medium comprises a cross-linked polymer and wherein
said cross-linked polymer comprises one of a urethane and an acrylate.

40. An automotive rearview mirror assembly suitable for use in a vehicle,
said automotive rearview mirror assembly comprising:an electrochromic
reflective element;wherein said electrochromic reflective element
provides a rearward field of view to a driver of a vehicle equipped with
said automotive rearview mirror assembly;said electrochromic reflective
element comprising an electrochromic medium disposed between a first
substrate and a second substrate;wherein said first substrate is closer
to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said second substrate when
said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped
vehicle;wherein said first substrate has a first surface and a second
surface;wherein said first surface is closer to the driver of the
equipped vehicle than said second surface when said automotive rearview
mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped vehicle;wherein said second
substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface;wherein said third
surface is closer to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said fourth
surface when said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the
equipped vehicle;a transparent electrical conductor disposed at said
second surface of said first substrate;a mirror reflector disposed at
said third surface of said second substrate;said mirror reflector
comprising a metal layer;an on-demand display that is viewable through
said mirror reflector by the driver of the equipped vehicle when
displaying information and that is substantially non-viewable by the
driver of the equipped vehicle when not displaying information;display
control circuitry for controlling said on-demand display;electrochromic
mirror dimming circuitry for controlling dimming of said electrochromic
medium;wherein said display control circuitry at least one of (a) shares
a component with said electrochromic minor dimming circuitry and (b)
shares circuitry with said electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry;
andwherein said electrochromic medium comprises at least one of (i) a
viologen, (ii) a phenazine, (iii) 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine,
(iv) a heptyl viologen, (v) a distryrylmethyl viologen, (vi) an
ethylhydroxypropyl viologen, (vii) propylene carbonate, (viii) an
ultraviolet stabilizer, (ix) a phenothiazine, (x) a metallocene, (xi) a
cross-linked polymer, (xii) a plasticizer, (xiii) a polychromic solid
film formed from curing an electrochromic monomer composition comprising
hydroxyundecyl viologen perchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen
diperchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol, ferrocene and
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene carbonate in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xiv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecylphenylpropyl
viologen diperchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen diperchlorate and
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene carbonate in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecyl viologen
perchlorate, ethyl viologen perchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol, ferrocene
and 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in a mixture of
tertraethyleneglycol dimethylether and tetramethylenesulfone in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xvi) a cathodic electrochromic compound, (xvii) an anodic
electrochromic compound, (xviii) a cathodic electrochromic compound and
an anodic electrochromic compound and (xix) an electrochromic
cross-linked polymer solid film.

41. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 40, wherein
said display control circuitry shares a microprocessor with said
electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry.

42. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 40, further
comprising a video camera and a headlamp controller.

66. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 40, wherein
at least one of said first substrate and said second substrate comprises
a glass substrate having a thickness in the range of from about 1 mm to
about 1.8 mm.

67. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 40, wherein
said first substrate comprises a glass substrate having a thickness in
the range of from about 1 mm to about 1.8 mm and wherein said second
substrate comprises a glass substrate having a thickness in the range of
from about 1 mm to about 1.8 mm.

68. An automotive rearview mirror assembly suitable for use in a vehicle,
said automotive rearview mirror assembly comprising:an electrochromic
reflective element;wherein said electrochromic reflective element
provides a rearward field of view to a driver of a vehicle equipped with
said automotive rearview mirror assembly;said electrochromic reflective
element comprising an electrochromic medium disposed between a first
substrate and a second substrate;wherein said first substrate is closer
to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said second substrate when
said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped
vehicle;wherein said first substrate has a first surface and a second
surface;wherein said first surface is closer to the driver of the
equipped vehicle than said second surface when said automotive rearview
mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped vehicle;wherein said second
substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface;wherein said third
surface is closer to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said fourth
surface when said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the
equipped vehicle;a transparent electrical conductor disposed at said
second surface of said first substrate;a mirror reflector disposed at
said third surface of said second substrate;said mirror reflector
comprising a metal layer;a video camera and a headlamp controller;wherein
said video camera comprises a CMOS video microchip;electrochromic mirror
dimming circuitry for controlling dimming of said electrochromic
medium;wherein said at least one of said video camera and said headlamp
controller at least one of (a) shares a component with said
electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry and (b) shares circuitry with
said electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry; andwherein said
electrochromic medium comprises at least one of (i) a viologen, (ii) a
phenazine, (iii) 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine, (iv) a heptyl
viologen, (v) a distryrylmethyl viologen, (vi) an ethylhydroxypropyl
viologen, (vii) propylene carbonate, (viii) an ultraviolet stabilizer,
(ix) a phenothiazine, (x) a metallocene, (xi) a cross-linked polymer,
(xii) a plasticizer, (xiii) a polychromic solid film formed from curing
an electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecyl viologen
perchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen diperchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol,
ferrocene and 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene
carbonate in combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and
a UV stabilizer, (xiv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecylphenylpropyl
viologen diperchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen diperchlorate and
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene carbonate in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecyl viologen
perchlorate, ethyl viologen perchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol, ferrocene
and 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in a mixture of
tertraethyleneglycol dimethylether and tetramethylenesulfone in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xvi) a cathodic electrochromic compound, (xvii) an anodic
electrochromic compound, (xviii) a cathodic electrochromic compound and
an anodic electrochromic compound and (xix) an electrochromic
cross-linked polymer solid film.

69. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 68, wherein
at least one of said video camera and said headlamp controller shares a
microprocessor with said electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry.

70. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 68,
including an on-demand display that is viewable through said mirror
reflector by the driver of the equipped vehicle when displaying
information and that is substantially non-viewable by the driver of the
equipped vehicle when not displaying information, and wherein said
on-demand display comprises a multi-pixel display.

71. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 68, wherein
said metal layer comprises a metal selected from the group consisting of
aluminum, palladium, platinum, titanium, gold, chromium, silver and
steel.

90. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 68, wherein
at least one of said first substrate and said second substrate comprises
a glass substrate having a thickness in the range of from about 1 mm to
about 1.8 mm.

91. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 68, wherein
said first substrate comprises a glass substrate having a thickness in
the range of from about 1 mm to about 1.8 mm and wherein said second
substrate comprises a glass substrate having a thickness in the range of
from about 1 mm to about 1.8 mm.

92. An automotive rearview mirror assembly suitable for use in a vehicle,
said automotive rearview mirror assembly comprising:an electrochromic
reflective element;wherein said electrochromic reflective element
provides a rearward field of view to a driver of a vehicle equipped with
said automotive rearview mirror assembly;said electrochromic reflective
element comprising an electrochromic medium disposed between a first
substrate and a second substrate;wherein said first substrate is closer
to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said second substrate when
said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped
vehicle;wherein said first substrate has a first surface and a second
surface;wherein said first surface is closer to the driver of the
equipped vehicle than said second surface when said automotive rearview
mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped vehicle;wherein said second
substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface;wherein said third
surface is closer to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said fourth
surface when said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the
equipped vehicle;a transparent electrical conductor disposed at said
second surface of said first substrate;a mirror reflector disposed at
said third surface of said second substrate;said mirror reflector
comprising a metal layer;a plurality of features included in said
automotive rearview mirror assembly;said plurality of features comprising
at least two selected from the group consisting of (i) a video camera,
(ii) a headlamp controller, (iii) a garage door opener, (iv) a component
of an intelligent highway system, (v) a component of a toll transaction
system, (vi) an on-demand display that is viewable through said mirror
reflector by the driver of the equipped vehicle when displaying
information and that is substantially non-viewable by the driver of the
equipped vehicle when not displaying information, (vii) an array of
light-emitting diodes, (viii) a loudspeaker and (ix) an
antenna;electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry for controlling dimming
of said electrochromic medium;wherein said automotive rearview mirror
assembly comprises an automotive interior rearview mirror assembly;
andwherein said electrochromic medium comprises at least one of (i) a
viologen, (ii) a phenazine, (iii) 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine,
(iv) a heptyl viologen, (v) a distryrylmethyl viologen, (vi) an
ethylhydroxypropyl viologen, (vii) propylene carbonate, (viii) an
ultraviolet stabilizer, (ix) a phenothiazine, (x) a metallocene, (xi) a
cross-linked polymer, (xii) a plasticizer, (xiii) a polychromic solid
film formed from curing an electrochromic monomer composition comprising
hydroxyundecyl viologen perchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen
diperchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol, ferrocene and
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene carbonate in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xiv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecylphenylpropyl
viologen diperchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen diperchlorate and
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene carbonate in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecyl viologen
perchlorate, ethyl viologen perchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol, ferrocene
and 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in a mixture of
tertraethyleneglycol dimethylether and tetramethylenesulfone in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xvi) a cathodic electrochromic compound, (xvii) an anodic
electrochromic compound, (xviii) a cathodic electrochromic compound and
an anodic electrochromic compound and (xix) an electrochromic
cross-linked polymer solid film.

93. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 92, wherein
said plurality of features comprises at least two selected from the group
consisting of (i) a video camera, (ii) a headlamp controller, (iii) a
garage door opener and (iii) an on-demand display that is viewable
through said mirror reflector by the driver of the equipped vehicle when
displaying information.

95. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 94, wherein
at least one of said plurality of features at least one of (a) shares a
component with said electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry and (b)
shares circuitry with said electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry.

96. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 93, wherein
said plurality of features comprises an on-demand display that is
viewable through said mirror reflector by the driver of the equipped
vehicle when displaying information and wherein said metal layer of said
mirror reflector is at least one of (i) undercoated by another layer and
(ii) overcoated by another layer.

97. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 96, wherein
said plurality of features comprising a component of a toll transaction
system, and wherein said component of a toll transaction system comprises
an on-demand toll transaction display.

99. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 93, wherein
said plurality of features comprises a video camera and wherein said
video camera comprises a CMOS video microchip.

100. An automotive rearview mirror assembly suitable for use in a vehicle,
said automotive rearview mirror assembly comprising:an electrochromic
reflective element;wherein said electrochromic reflective element
provides a rearward field of view to a driver of a vehicle equipped with
said automotive rearview mirror assembly;said electrochromic reflective
element comprising an electrochromic medium disposed between a first
substrate and a second substrate;wherein said first substrate is closer
to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said second substrate when
said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped
vehicle;wherein said first substrate has a first surface and a second
surface;wherein said first surface is closer to the driver of the
equipped vehicle than said second surface when said automotive rearview
mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped vehicle;wherein said second
substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface;wherein said third
surface is closer to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said fourth
surface when said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the
equipped vehicle;a transparent electrical conductor disposed at said
second surface of said first substrate;a mirror reflector disposed at
said third surface of said second substrate;said mirror reflector
comprising a metal layer;a video camera included in said automotive
rearview mirror assembly;wherein said video camera comprises a CMOS video
microchip;electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry for controlling dimming
of said electrochromic medium;wherein said automotive rearview mirror
assembly comprises an automotive interior rearview mirror assembly;
andwherein said electrochromic medium comprises at least one of (i) a
viologen, (ii) a phenazine, (iii) 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine,
(iv) a heptyl viologen, (v) a distryrylmethyl viologen, (vi) an
ethylhydroxypropyl viologen, (vii) propylene carbonate, (viii) an
ultraviolet stabilizer, (ix) a phenothiazine, (x) a metallocene, (xi) a
cross-linked polymer, (xii) a plasticizer, (xiii) a polychromic solid
film formed from curing an electrochromic monomer composition comprising
hydroxyundecyl viologen perchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen
diperchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol, ferrocene and
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene carbonate in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xiv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecylphenylpropyl
viologen diperchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen diperchlorate and
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene carbonate in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecyl viologen
perchlorate, ethyl viologen perchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol, ferrocene
and 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in a mixture of
tertraethyleneglycol dimethylether and tetramethylenesulfone in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xvi) a cathodic electrochromic compound, (xvii) an anodic
electrochromic compound, (xviii) a cathodic electrochromic compound and
an anodic electrochromic compound and (xix) an electrochromic
cross-linked polymer solid film.

101. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 100,
wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly comprises an on-demand
display that is viewable through said mirror reflector by the driver of
the equipped vehicle when displaying information.

104. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 103,
wherein at least one of said video camera and said headlamp controller at
least one of (a) shares a component with said electrochromic mirror
dimming circuitry and (b) shares circuitry with said electrochromic
mirror dimming circuitry.

105. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 104,
wherein said metal layer of said mirror reflector is at least one of (i)
undercoated by another layer and (ii) overcoated by another layer.

106. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 104,
wherein said metal layer of said mirror reflector is undercoated by a
transparent electrically conductive layer.

108. An automotive rearview mirror assembly suitable for use in a vehicle,
said automotive rearview mirror assembly comprising:an electrochromic
reflective element;wherein said electrochromic reflective element
provides a rearward field of view to a driver of a vehicle equipped with
said automotive rearview mirror assembly;said electrochromic reflective
element comprising an electrochromic medium disposed between a first
substrate and a second substrate;wherein said first substrate is closer
to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said second substrate when
said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped
vehicle;wherein said first substrate has a first surface and a second
surface;wherein said first surface is closer to the driver of the
equipped vehicle than said second surface when said automotive rearview
mirror assembly is mounted at the equipped vehicle;wherein said second
substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface;wherein said third
surface is closer to the driver of the equipped vehicle than said fourth
surface when said automotive rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the
equipped vehicle;a transparent electrical conductor disposed at said
second surface of said first substrate;a mirror reflector disposed at
said third surface of said second substrate;said mirror reflector
comprising a metal layer;wherein said metal layer is undercoated by a
transparent undercoating layer;electrochromic mirror dimming circuitry
for controlling dimming of said electrochromic medium;wherein said
electrochromic medium comprises at least one of (i) a viologen, (ii) a
phenazine, (iii) 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine, (iv) a heptyl
viologen, (v) a distryrylmethyl viologen, (vi) an ethylhydroxypropyl
viologen, (vii) propylene carbonate, (viii) an ultraviolet stabilizer,
(ix) a phenothiazine, (x) a metallocene, (xi) a cross-linked polymer,
(xii) a plasticizer, (xiii) a polychromic solid film formed from curing
an electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecyl viologen
perchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen diperchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol,
ferrocene and 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene
carbonate in combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and
a UV stabilizer, (xiv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecylphenylpropyl
viologen diperchlorate, diphenylpropyl viologen diperchlorate and
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in propylene carbonate in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xv) a polychromic solid film formed from curing an
electrochromic monomer composition comprising hydroxyundecyl viologen
perchlorate, ethyl viologen perchlorate, a ferrocene-polyol, ferrocene
and 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine dispersed in a mixture of
tertraethyleneglycol dimethylether and tetramethylenesulfone in
combination with an isocyanate, a polyol, a tin catalyst and a UV
stabilizer, (xvi) a cathodic electrochromic compound, (xvii) an anodic
electrochromic compound, (xviii) a cathodic electrochromic compound and
an anodic electrochromic compound and (xix) an electrochromic
cross-linked polymer solid film; andan on-demand display that is viewable
through said mirror reflector by the driver of the equipped vehicle when
displaying information and that is substantially non-viewable by the
driver of the equipped vehicle when not displaying information, and
wherein said on-demand display comprises a multi-pixel display.

110. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 108,
further comprising a video camera and a headlamp controller, and wherein
said video camera comprises a CMOS video microchip, and wherein said at
least one of said video camera and said headlamp controller at least one
of (a) shares a component with said electrochromic mirror dimming
circuitry and (b) shares circuitry with said electrochromic mirror
dimming circuitry.

111. The automotive rearview mirror assembly according to claim 110,
wherein at least one of said video camera and said headlamp controller
shares a microprocessor with said electrochromic mirror dimming
circuitry.

Description:

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
12/614,812, filed Nov. 9, 2009 (Attorney Docket DON01 P-1570), which is a
continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/061,795, filed Apr. 3, 2008,
now U.S. Pat. No. 7,643,200, which is a continuation of U.S. application
Ser. No. 11/957,755, filed Dec. 17, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,589,883,
which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/653,254, filed
Jan. 16, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,349,144, which is a continuation
application of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/954,233 filed on Oct. 1,
2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,202,987, which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/197,679, filed Jul. 16, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No.
6,855,431, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
09/381,856, filed Jan. 27, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,420,036, which is a
35 U.S.C. Section 371 of PCT/US98/05570, filed Mar. 26, 1998; and the
present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser.
No. 12/268,014, filed Nov. 10, 2008 (Attorney Docket DON01 P-1486), which
is a division of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/954,982, filed Dec. 12,
2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,494,231, which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 11/655,096, filed Jan. 19, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No.
7,572,017, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
11/244,182, filed Oct. 6, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,543,947, which is a
continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/971,456, filed Oct. 22,
2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,004,592, which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 09/954,285, filed Sep. 18, 2001, abandoned, which is
a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 08/957,027, filed Oct. 24,
1997, abandoned; and the present application is a continuation-in-part of
U.S. application Ser. No. 12/636,126, filed Dec. 11, 2009 (Attorney
Docket DON01 P-1578), which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 12/339,786, filed Dec. 19, 2008 (Attorney Docket DON01 P-1494), which
is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/935,808, filed Nov. 6,
2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,467,883, which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 11/835,088, filed Aug. 7, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No.
7,311,428, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
11/498,663, filed Aug. 3, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,255,465, which is a
continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/064,294, filed Feb. 23,
2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,108,409, which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/739,766, filed Dec. 18, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No.
6,877,888, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
10/134,775, filed Apr. 29, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,672,744, which is a
continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/526,151 filed Mar. 15, 2000,
now U.S. Pat. No. 6,386,742, which is a division of U.S. application Ser.
No. 08/918,772, filed Aug. 25, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,886.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002]1. Technical Field of the Invention

[0003]The present invention relates to reversibly variable electrochromic
devices for varying the transmittance to light, such as electrochromic
rearview mirrors, windows and sun roofs for motor vehicles, reversibly
variable electrochromic elements therefor and processes for making such
devices and elements.

[0004]2. Brief Description of the Related Technology

[0005]Reversibly variable electrochromic devices are known in the art. In
such devices, the intensity of light (e.g., visible, infrared,
ultraviolet or other distinct or overlapping electromagnetic radiation)
is modulated by passing the light through an electrochromic medium. The
electrochromic medium is disposed between two conductive electrodes, at
least one of which is typically transparent, which causes the medium to
undergo reversible electrochemical reactions when potential differences
are applied across the two electrodes. Some examples of these prior art
devices are described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,280,701 (Donnelly); U.S. Pat.
No. 3,451,741 (Manos); U.S. Pat. No. 3,806,229 (Schoot); U.S. Pat. No.
4,712,879 (Lynam) ("Lynam I"); U.S. Pat. No. 4,902,108 (Byker) ("Byker
I"); and I. F. Chang, "Electrochromic and Electrochemichromic Materials
and Phenomena", in Nonemissive Electrooptic Displays, 155-96, A. R. Kmetz
and F. K. von Willisen, eds., Plenum Press, New York (1976).

[0006]Reversibly variable electrochromic media include those wherein the
electrochemical reaction takes place in a solid film or occurs entirely
in a liquid solution. See e.g., Chang.

[0008]In single-compartment, self-erasing, solution-phase electrochromic
devices, the intensity of the electromagnetic radiation is modulated by
passing through a solution held in a compartment. The solution often
includes a solvent, at least one anodic compound and at least one
cathodic compound. During operation of such devices, the solution is
fluid, although it may be gelled or made highly viscous with a thickening
agent, and the solution components, including the anodic compounds and
cathodic compounds, do not precipitate. See e.g., Byker I and Byker II.

[0009]Certain of these electrochemichromic devices have presented
drawbacks. First, a susceptibility exists for distinct bands of color to
form adjacent the bus bars after having retained a colored state over a
prolonged period of time. This undesirable event is known as segregation.
Second, processing and manufacturing limitations are presented with
electrochemichromic devices containing electrochemichromic solutions. For
instance, in the case of electrochemichromic devices which contain an
electrochemichromic solution within a compartment or cavity thereof, the
size and shape of the electrochemichromic device is limited by the bulges
and non-uniformities which often form in such large area
electrochemichromic devices because of the hydrostatic nature of the
liquid solution. Third, from a safety standpoint, in the event an
electrochemichromic device should break or become damaged through
fracture or rupture, it is important for the device to maintain its
integrity so that, if the substrates of the device are shattered, an
electrochemichromic solution does not escape therefrom and that shards of
glass and the like are retained and do not scatter about. In the known
electrochromic devices, measures to reduce breakage or broken glass
scattering include the use of tempered glass and/or a laminate assembly
comprising at least two panels affixed to one another by an adhesive.
Such measures control the scattering of glass shards in the event of
breakage or damage due, for instance, to the impact caused by an
accident.

[0011]In solid-state thin film electrochromic devices, an anodic
electrochromic layer and a cathodic electrochromic layer, each layer
usually made from inorganic metal oxides, are typically separate and
distinct from one another and assembled in a spaced-apart relationship.
The solid-state thin films are often formed using techniques such as
chemical vapor deposition or physical vapor deposition. Such techniques
are not attractive economically, however, as they involve cost. In
another type of solid-state thin film electrochromic device, two
substrates are coated separately with compositions of photo- or
thermo-setting monomers or oligomers to form on one of the substrates an
electrochromic layer, with the electrochromic material present within the
layer being predominantly an inorganic material, and on the other
substrate a redox layer. [See Japanese Patent Document JP 63-262,624].

[0012]Attempts have been made to prepare electrochromic media from
polymers. For example, it has been reported that electrochromic polymer
layers may be prepared by dissolving in a solvent organic polymers, which
contain no functionality capable of further polymerization, together with
an electrochromic compound, and thereafter casting or coating the
resulting solution onto an electrode. It has been reported further that
electrochromic polymer layers are created upon evaporation of the solvent
by pressure reduction and/or temperature elevation. [See e.g., U.S. Pat.
No. 3,652,149 (Rogers), U.S. Pat. No. 3,774,988 (Rogers) and U.S. Pat.
No. 3,873,185 (Rogers); U.S. Pat. No. 4,550,982 (Hirai); Japanese Patent
Document JP 52-10,745; and Y. Hirai and C. Tani, "Electrochromism for
Organic Materials in Polymeric All-Solid State Systems", Appl. Phys.
Lett., 43(7), 704-05 (1983)]. Use of such polymer solution casting
systems has disadvantages, however, including the need to evaporate the
solvent prior to assembling devices to form polymer electrochromic
layers. This additional processing step adds to the cost of manufacture
through increased capital expenditures and energy requirements, involves
potential exposure to hazardous chemical vapors and constrains the type
of device to be manufactured.

[0013]A thermally cured polymer gel film containing a single organic
electrochromic compound has also been reported for use in display
devices. [See H. Tsutsumi et al., "Polymer Gel Films with Simple Organic
Electrochromics for Single-Film Electrochromic Devices", J. Polym. Sci.,
30, 1725-29 (1992) and H. Tsutsumi et al., "Single Polymer Gel Film
Electrochromic Device", Electrochemica Acta, 37, 369-70 (1992)]. The gel
film reported therein was said to possess a solvent-like environment
around the electrochromic compounds of that film. This gel film was
reported to turn brown, and ceased to perform color-bleach cycles, after
only 35,200 color-bleach cycles.

[0015]The present invention further provides novel processes for making
polychromic solid films by transforming such novel electrochromic monomer
compositions into polychromic solid films through exposure to
electromagnetic radiation for a time sufficient to effect an in situ
cure.

[0016]The present invention still further provides electrochromic devices,
such as those referred to above, particularly rearview mirrors, windows
and sun roofs for automobiles, which devices are stable to outdoor
weathering, particularly weathering observed due to prolonged exposure to
ultraviolet radiation from the sun, and are safety protected against
impact from an accident. Such outdoor weathering and safety benefits are
achieved by manufacturing these devices using as a medium of varying
transmittance to light the polychromic solid films prepared by the in
situ cure of an electrochromic monomer composition containing a monomer
component that is capable of further polymerization.

[0017]The present invention provides for the first time, among other
things (1) polychromic solid films that may be transformed from
electrochromic monomer compositions by an in situ curing process through
exposure to electromagnetic radiation, such as ultraviolet radiation; (2)
a transformation during the in situ curing process from the low
viscosity, typically liquid, electrochromic monomer compositions to
polychromic solid films that occurs with minimum shrinkage and with good
adhesion to the contacting surfaces; (3) polychromic solid films that (a)
may be manufactured to be self-supporting and subsequently laminated
between conductive substrates, (b) perform well under prolonged
coloration, (c) demonstrate a resistance to degradation caused by
environmental conditions, such as outdoor weathering and all-climate
exposure, particularly demonstrating ultraviolet stability when exposed
to the sun, and (d) demonstrate a broad spectrum of color under an
applied potential; (4) polychromic solid films that may be manufactured
economically and are amenable to commercial processing; (5) polychromic
solid films that provide inherent safety protection not known to
electrochromic media heretofore; and (6) electrochromic monomer
compositions that comprise anodic electrochromic compounds and cathodic
electrochromic compounds, which compounds are organic or organometallic.

[0018]The self-supporting nature of polychromic solid films provides many
benefits to the electrochromic devices manufactured therewith, including
the elimination of a compartmentalization means, such as a sealing means,
since no such means is required to confine or contain a polychromic solid
film within an electrochromic device. That polychromic solid films may be
manufactured to be self-supporting also enhances processibility, and
vitiates obstacles well-recognized in the manufacturing of electrochromic
devices containing known electrochromic media, especially those that are
to be vertically mounted in their intended use.

[0019]Moreover, since the electrochromic compounds are not free to migrate
within polychromic solid films, in contrast to electrochromic compounds
present within a liquid solution-phase environment, polychromic solid
films do not pose the segregation concern as do solution-phase
electrochemichromic devices; rather, polychromic solid films perform well
under prolonged coloration.

[0020]Further, from a safety perspective, in the event that electrochromic
devices manufactured with polychromic solid films should break or become
damaged due to the impact from an accident, no liquid is present to seep
therefrom since the polychromic solid films of the present invention are
indeed solid. Also, the need to manufacture electrochromic devices with
tempered glass, or with at least one of the substrates being of a
laminate assembly, to reduce potential lacerative injuries is obviated
since polychromic solid films, positioned between, and in abutting
relationship with, the conductive surface of the two substrates, exhibit
good adhesion to the contacting surfaces. Thus, polychromic solid films
should retain any glass shards that may be created and prevent them from
scattering. Therefore, a safety protection feature inherent to
polychromic solid films is also provided herein, making polychromic solid
films particularly attractive for use in connection with electrochromic
devices, such as mirrors, windows, sun roofs, shade bands, eye glass and
the like.

[0021]Polychromic solid films embody a novel and useful technology within
the electrochromic art, whose utility will become more readily apparent
and more greatly appreciated by those of skill in the art through a study
of the detailed description taken in conjunction with the figures which
follow hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0022]FIG. 1 depicts a sectional view of an electrochromic device
employing an electrochromic polymeric solid film according to the present
invention.

[0023]FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of an electrochromic glazing
assembly according to the present invention.

[0024]FIG. 3 is a top plan view of a vehicle having a blind spot detection
system.

[0025]FIG. 4 is a block diagram and partial schematic diagram of a blind
spot detection display system, as viewed by a vehicle operator.

[0026]FIG. 5 is the same view as FIG. 3 of an alternative embodiment of a
blind spot detection display system.

[0027]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of a
blind spot detection display system.

[0028]The depictions in these figures are for illustrative purposes and
thus are not drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029]In accordance with the teaching of the present invention,
polychromic solid films may be prepared by exposing an electrochromic
monomer composition to electromagnetic radiation for a time sufficient to
transform the electrochromic monomer composition into a polychromic solid
film. This in situ curing process initiates polymerization of, and
typically completely polymerizes, an electrochromic monomer composition,
normally in a liquid state, by exposure to electromagnetic radiation to
form a polychromic solid film, whose surface and cross-sections are
substantially tack-free.

[0030]The electrochromic monomer compositions are comprised of anodic
electrochromic compounds, cathodic electrochromic compounds, each of
which are organic or organometallic compounds, a monomer component and a
plasticizer. In addition, cross-linking agents, photoinitiators,
photosensitizers, ultraviolet stabilizing agents, electrolytic materials,
coloring agents, spacers, anti-oxidizing agents, flame retarding agents,
heat stabilizing agents, compatibilizing agents, adhesion promoting
agents, coupling agents, humectants and lubricating agents and
combinations thereof may also be added. In the preferred electrochromic
monomer compositions, the chosen monomer component may be a
polyfunctional monomer, such as a difunctional monomer, trifunctional
monomer, or a higher functional monomer, or a combination of
monofunctional monomer and difunctional monomer or monofunctional monomer
and cross-linking agent. Those of ordinary skill in the art may choose a
particular monomer component or combination of monomer components from
those recited in view of the intended application so as to impart the
desired beneficial properties and characteristics to the polychromic
solid film.

[0031]An anodic electrochromic compound suitable for use in the present
invention may be selected from the class of chemical compounds
represented by the following formulae:

##STR00001##

wherein A is O, S or NRR1;wherein R and R1 may be the same or
different, and each may be selected from the group consisting of H or any
straight- or branched-chain alkyl constituent having from about one
carbon atom to about eight carbon atoms, such as CH3,
CH2CH3, CH2CH2CH3, CH(CH3)2,
C(CH3)3 and the like; provided that when A is NRR1, Q is
H, OH or NRR1; further provided that when A is NRR1 a salt may
be associated therewith; still further provided that when both A and Q
are NRR1, A and Q need not, but may, be the same functional group;

[0032]D is O, S, NR1 or Se;

[0033]E is R1, COOH or CONH2; or, E and T, when taken together,
represent an aromatic ring structure having six ring carbon atoms when
viewed in conjunction with the ring carbon atoms to which they are
attached;

[0034]G is H;

[0035]J is H, any straight- or branched-chain alkyl constituent having
from about one carbon atom to about eight carbon atoms, such as CH3,
CH2CH3, CH2CH2CH3, CH(CH3)2,
C(CH3)3 and the like, NRR1,

##STR00002##

OR1 phenyl, 2,4-dihydroxyphenyl or any halogen; or, G and J, when
taken together, represent an aromatic ring structure having six ring
carbon atoms when viewed in conjunction with the ring carbon atoms to
which they are attached;

[0036]L is H or OH;

[0037]M is H or any halogen;

[0038]T is R1, phenyl or 2,4-dihydroxyphenyl; and

[0039]Q is H, OH or NRR1;

provided that when L and/or Q are OH, L and/or Q may also be salts
thereof; further provided that in order to render it electrochemically
active in the present context, anodic electrochromic compound I has been
previously contacted with a redox agent;

##STR00003##

wherein X and Y may be the same or different, and each may be selected
from the group consisting of H, any halogen or NRR1, wherein R and
R1 may be the same or different, and are as defined supra; or, X and
Y, when taken together, represent an aromatic ring structure having six
ring carbon atoms when viewed in conjunction with the ring carbon atoms
to which they are attached; and

[0040]Z is OH or NRR1 or salts thereof; provided that in order to
render it electrochemically active in the present context, anodic
electrochromic compound II has been previously contacted with a redox
agent;

##STR00004##

[0041]derivatives of 5,10-dihydrophenazinewherein R and R1 may be the
same or different, and are defined supra;

##STR00005##

[0042]derivatives of 1,4-phenylenediaminewherein R and R1 may be the
same or different, and are defined supra;

##STR00006##

[0043]derivatives of benzidinewherein R and R1 may be the same or
different, and are defined supra;

[0044]Metallocenes suitable for use as a component of the electrochromic
monomer composition include, but are not limited to the following:

##STR00007##

[0045]metallocenes and their derivativeswherein R and R1 may be the
same or different, and each may be selected from the group consisting of
H; any straight- or branched-chain alkyl constituent having from about 1
carbon atom to about 8 carbon atoms, such as CH3, CH2CH3,
CH2CH2CH3, CH(CH3)2, C(CH3)3 and the
like; acetyl; vinyl; allyl; --(CH2)n--OH, wherein n may be an
integer in the range of 0 to about 20;

##STR00008##

[0045]wherein n may be an integer in the range of 0 to about 20;
--(CH2)--COOR2, wherein n may be an integer in the range of 0
to about 20 and R2 may be any straight- or branched-chain alkyl
constituent having from about 1 carbon atom to about 20 carbon atoms,
hydrogen, lithium, sodium,

##STR00009##

wherein n may be an integer from 0 to about 20, --(CH2)n'--OR3,
wherein n' may be an integer in the range of 1 to about 12 and R3
may be any straight- or branched-chain alkyl constituent having from
about 1 carbon atom to about 8 carbon atoms,

##STR00010##

and --(CH2)--N.sup.+(CH3)3X, wherein n' may be an integer
in the range of 1 to about 12; X may be Cl-, Br-, I-,
PF6-, ClO4-BF4-; and wherein MC, is
Fe, Ni, Ru, Co, Ti, Cr, W, Mo and the like;

##STR00011##

and combinations thereof.

[0046]Phenothiazines suitable for use as a component of the electrochromic
monomer composition include, but are not limited to, those represented by
the following structures:

##STR00012##

where R9 may be selected from the group consisting of H; any
straight- or branched-chain alkyl constituent having from about 1 carbon
atom to about 10 carbon atoms; phenyl; benzyl; --(CH2)2--CN;
--(CH2)2--COOH;

##STR00013##

wherein m' may be an integer in the range of 1 to about 8;

##STR00014##

wherein R18 may be any straight- or branched-chain alkyl constituent
having from about 1 carbon atom to about 8 carbon atoms; and

[0048]R9 and R17, when taken together, form a ring with six
atoms (five of which being carbon) having a carbonyl substituent on one
of the carbon atoms. Preferred among phenothiazines 1-A is phenothiazines
2-A to 4-A as depicted in the following structure:

##STR00016##

[0049]An example of a desirable quinone for use as component in the
electrochromic monomer composition include, but is not limited to the
following structure:

##STR00017##

[0050]Combinations of components in the electrochromic monomer composition
may be selectively chosen to achieve a desired substantially non-spectral
selectivity when the electrochromic element (and the mirror in which the
electrochromic element is to function) is dimmed to a colored state.

[0051]To render anodic electrochromic compounds I and II electrochemically
active in the context of the present invention, a redox pre-contacting
procedure must be used. Such a redox pre-contacting procedure is
described in the context of preparing anodic compounds for
electrochemichromic solutions in Varaprasad IV and commonly assigned U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 07/935,784 (filed Aug. 27, 1992), now U.S.
Pat. No. 5,500,760.

[0052]Preferably, anodic electrochromic compound I may be selected from
the group consisting of the class of chemical compounds represented by
the following formulae:

##STR00018## ##STR00019## ##STR00020## ##STR00021##

and combinations thereof.

[0053]Among the especially preferred anodic electrochromic compounds I are
MVTB (XV), PT (XVI), MPT (XVII), and POZ (XIX), with MVTB and MPT being
most preferred. Also preferred is the reduced form of MPT which results
from the redox pre-contacting procedure referred to above, and has been
thereafter isolated. This reduced and isolated form of MPT--RMPT
[XVII(a)]--is believed to be 2-methyl-3-hydroxyphenathiazine, which is
represented by the following chemical formula

[0056]As a preferred anodic electrochromic compound VI, metallocenes, such
as ferrocene, wherein Me is iron and R and R1 are each
hydrogen, and alkyl derivatives thereof, may also be used advantageously
in the context of the present invention.

[0057]The salts referred to in connection with the anodic electrochromic
compounds include, but are not limited to, alkali metal salts, such as
lithium, sodium, potassium and the like. In addition, when A is
NRR1, tetrafluoroborate ("BF4"), perchlorate ("ClO4"),
trifluoromethane sulfonate ("CF3S03-"),
hexafluorophosphate ("PF6-"), acetate ("AC-") and any
halogen may be associated therewith. Moreover, the ring nitrogen atom in
anodic electrochromic compound I may also appear as an N-oxide.

[0058]Any one or more of anodic electrochromic compounds I, II, III, IV,
V, VI or VII may also be advantageously combined, in any proportion,
within an electrochromic monomer composition and thereafter transformed
into a polychromic solid film to achieve the results so stated herein. Of
course, as regards anodic electrochromic compounds I and II, it is
necessary to contact those compounds with a redox agent prior to use so
as to render them electrochemically active in the present invention. Upon
the application of a potential thereto, such combinations of anodic
electrochromic compounds within a polychromic solid film may often
generate color distinct from the color observed from polychromic solid
films containing individual anodic electrochromic compounds. A preferred
combination of anodic electrochromic compounds in this invention is the
combination of anodic electrochromic compounds III and VI. Nonetheless,
those of ordinary skill in the art may make appropriate choices among
individual anodic electrochromic compounds and combinations thereof, to
prepare a polychromic solid film capable of generating a color suitable
for a particular application.

[0059]A choice of a cathodic electrochromic compound for use herein should
also be made. The cathodic electrochromic compound may be selected from
the class of chemical compounds represented by the following formulae:

##STR00024##

wherein R3, R4, R21, R22, R23 and R24 may be
the same or different and each may be selected from the group consisting
of H, any straight- or branched-chain alkyl constituent having from about
one carbon atom to about eight carbon atoms, or any straight- or
branched-chain alkyl- or alkoxy-phenyl, wherein the alkyl or alkoxy
constituent contains from about one carbon atom to about eight carbon
atoms;

##STR00025##

wherein n' may be an integer in the range--of 1 to 12;

##STR00026##

wherein R5 may be H or CH3, and n' may be an integer in the
range of 1 to 12; HO--(CH2)n'--, wherein n' may be an integer
in the range of 1 to 12; and HOOC--(CH2)n'--, wherein n' may be an
integer in the range of 1 to 12;

##STR00027##

wherein q may be an integer in the range of 0 to 12; wherein each p is
independently an integer from 1 to 12; and wherein X is selected from the
group consisting of BF4-, ClO4-,
Cf3SO3-, styrylsulfonate ("SS-"), 2-
acrylamido-2-methylpropane-sulfonate, acrylate, methacrylate,
3-sulfopropylacrylate, 3-sulfopropylmethacrylate, PF6-,
Ac-, HO--(R25)--SO3- and
HOOC--(R25)--SO3- wherein R25 can be any straight- or
branched-chain alkyl constituent having from about 1 carbon atom to about
8 carbon atoms, an aryl or a functionalized aryl, an alkyl or aryl amide,
a branched or linear chain polymer, such as polyvinyls, polyethers and
polyesters bearing at least one and preferably multiple, hydroxyl and
sulphonate functionalities and any halide; and combinations thereof.

[0064]The above anodic electrochromic compounds and cathodic
electrochromic compounds may be chosen so as to achieve a desired color,
when the polychromic solid film in which they are present (and the device
in which the polychromic solid film is contained) is colored to a dimmed
state. For example, electrochromic automotive mirrors manufactured with
polychromic solid films should preferably bear a blue or substantially
neutral color when colored to a dimmed state. And, electrochromic
optically attenuating contrast filters, such as contrast enhancement
filters, manufactured with polychromic solid films should preferably bear
a substantially neutral color when colored to a dimmed state.

[0065]The plasticizer chosen for use in the present invention should
maintain the homogeneity of the electrochromic monomer compositions while
being prepared, used and stored, and prior to, during and after exposure
to electromagnetic radiation. As a result of its combination within the
electrochromic monomer composition or its exposure to electromagnetic
radiation, the plasticizer of choice should not form by-products that are
capable of hindering, or interfering with, the homogeneity and the
electrochemical efficacy of the resulting polychromic solid film. The
occurrence of any of these undesirable events during the in situ curing
process, whether at the pre-cure, cure or post-cure phase of the process
for preparing polychromic solid films, may interfere with the process
itself, and may affect the appearance and effectiveness of the resulting
polychromic solid films, and the electrochromic devices manufactured with
the same. The plasticizer also may play a role in defining the physical
properties and characteristics of the polychromic solid films of the
present invention, such as toughness, flex modulus, coefficient of
thermal expansion, elasticity, elongation and the like.

[0067]To prepare a polychromic solid film, a monomer should be chosen as a
monomer component that is capable of in situ curing through exposure to
electromagnetic radiation, and that is compatible with the other
components of the electrochromic monomer composition at the various
stages of the in situ, curing process. The combination of a plasticizer
with a monomer component (with or without the addition of a difunctional
monomer or a cross-linking agent) should preferably be in an equivalent
ratio of between about 75:25 to about 10:90 to prepare polychromic solid
films with superior properties and characteristics. Of course, the
art-skilled should bear in mind that the intended application of a
polychromic solid film will often dictate its particular properties and
characteristics, and that the choice and equivalent ratio of the
components within the electrochromic monomer composition may need to be
varied to attain a polychromic solid film with the desired properties and
characteristics.

[0068]Among the monomer components that may be advantageously employed in
the present invention are monomers having at least one reactive
functionality rendering the compound capable of polymerization or further
polymerization by an addition mechanism, such as vinyl polymerization or
ring opening polymerization. Included among such monomers are oligomers
and polymers that are capable of further polymerization. For monomers
suitable for use herein, see generally those commercially available from
Monomer-Polymer Labs., Inc., Philadelphia, Pa.; Sartomer Co., Exton, Pa.;
and Polysciences, Inc., Warrington, Pa.

[0069]Monomers capable of vinyl polymerization, suitable for use herein,
have as a commonality the ethylene functionality, as represented below:

##STR00030##

wherein R6, R7 and R8 may be the same or different, and are
each selected from a member of the group consisting of hydrogen; halogen;
alkyl, cycloalkyl, poly-cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl and alkyl and
alkenyl derivatives thereof; alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, cycloalkadienyl,
poly-cycloalkadienyl and alkyl and alkenyl derivatives thereof;
hydroxyalkyl; hydroxyalkenyl; alkoxyalkyl; alkoxyalkenyl; cyano; amido;
phenyl; benzyl and carboxylate, and derivatives thereof.

[0070]Preferred among these vinyl monomers are the ethylene carboxylate
derivatives known as acrylates--i.e., wherein at least one of R6,
R7 and R8 are carboxylate groups or derivatives thereof.
Suitable carboxylate derivatives include, but are not limited to alkyl,
cycloalkyl, poly-cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl and alkyl and alkenyl
derivatives thereof; alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, poly-cycloalkenyl and alkyl
and alkenyl derivatives thereof; mono- and poly-hydroxyalkyl; mono- and
polyhydroxyalkenyl; alkoxyalkyl; alkoxyalkenyl and cyano.

[0073]Other monomers capable of addition polymerization include
isocyanates, polyols, amines, polyamines, amides, polyamides, acids,
polyacids, compounds comprising an active methylene group, ureas, thiols,
etc. Preferably, such monomers have a functionality of 2 or greater. For
example, the monomer composition can include isocyanates such as
hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI); toluene diisocyanate (TDI including 2,
4 and 2, 6 isomers); diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI); isocyanate
tipped prepolymers such as those prepared from a diisocyanate and a
polyol; condensates produced from hexamethylene diisocyanate including
biuret type and trimer type (also known as isocyanurate), as is known in
the urethane chemical art. A recitation of various monomers suitable to
use in the electrochromic monomer composition is given in the following
Table 1.

[0078]Other commercially available epoxide monomers that are particularly
well-suited for use herein include those commercially available under the
"ENVIBAR" tradename from Union Carbide Chemicals and Plastics Co., Inc.,
Danbury, Conn., such as "ENVIBAR" UV 1244 (cycloalkyl epoxides).

[0079]In addition, derivatized urethanes, such as acrylated (e.g., mono-
or poly-acrylated) urethanes; derivatized heterocycles, such as acrylated
(e.g., mono- or poly-acrylated) heterocycles, like acrylated epoxides,
acrylated lactones, acrylated lactams; and combinations thereof, capable
of undergoing addition polymerizations, such as vinyl polymerizations and
ring opening polymerizations, are also well-suited for use herein.

[0085]Such cross-linking tends to improve the physical properties and
characteristics (e.g., mechanical strength) of the resulting polychromic
solid films. Cross-linking during cure to transform the electrochromic
monomer composition into a polychromic solid film may be achieved by
means of free radical ionic initiation by the exposure to electromagnetic
radiation. This may be accomplished by combining together all the
components of the particular electrochromic monomer composition and
thereafter effecting cure. Alternatively, cross-links may be achieved by
exposing to electromagnetic radiation the electrochromic monomer
composition for a time sufficient to effect a partial cure, whereupon
further electromagnetic radiation and/or a thermal influence may be
employed to effect a more complete in situ cure and transformation into
the polychromic solid film.

[0087]Ultraviolet radiation absorbing monomers may also be advantageously
employed herein. Preferred among such monomers are
1,3-bis-(4-benzoyl-3-hydroxyphenoxy)-2-propylacrylate,
2-hydroxy-4-acryloxyethoxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-octoxybenzophenone
and 4-methacryloxy-2- hydroxybenzophenone, as they perform the dual
function of acting as a monomer component, or a portion thereof, and as
an ultraviolet stabilizing agent.

[0088]Further, ultraviolet absorbing layers may be coated onto, or adhered
to, the first substrate and/or second substrate, and preferably the
substrate closest to the source of UV radiation, to assist in shielding
the electrochromic device from the degradative effect of ultraviolet
radiation. Suitable ultraviolet absorbing layers include those recited in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,073,012 entitled "Anti-scatter, Ultraviolet Protected,
Anti-misting Electro-optical Assemblies", filed Mar. 20, 1990, or as
disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/547,578 filed Oct. 24,
1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,729,379, the disclosures of which are hereby
incorporated by reference herein.

[0089]Examples of such layers include a layer of DuPont BE1028D which is a
polyvinylbutyral/polyester composite available from E.I. DuPont de
Nemours and Company, Wilmington, Del., and SORBALITE® polymeric UV
blockers (available from Monsanto Company, St. Louis, Mo.) which comprise
a clear thin polymer film, with UV absorbing chromophores incorporated,
such as by covalent bonding, in a polymer backbone. The SORBALITE®
clear thin polymer film when placed on a surface of the substrate closest
to the source of UV radiation (such as the sun), efficiently absorbs UV
light below about 370 nm with minimal effect on the visible region.
Thickness of the SORBALITE® film is desirably in the range of about
0.1 microns to 1000 microns (or thicker); preferably less than 100
microns; more preferably less than about 25 microns, and most preferably
less than about 10 microns. Also, UV absorbing thin films or additives
such as cerium oxide, iron oxide, nickel oxide and titanium oxide or such
oxides with dopants can be used to protect the electrochromic device from
UV degradation. Further as described above, UV absorbing chromophores can
be incorporated, such as by covalent bonding, into the solid polymer
matrix to impart enhanced resilience to UV radiation. Also near-infrared
radiation absorbing species may be incorporated into the solid polymer
matrix.

[0090]The density of the cross-link within the resulting polychromic solid
film tends to increase with the amount and/or the degree of functionality
of polyfunctional monomer present in the electrochromic monomer
composition. Cross-linking density within a polychromic solid film may be
achieved or further increased by adding to the electrochromic monomer
composition cross-linking agents, which themselves are incapable of
undergoing further polymerization. In addition to increasing the degree
of cross-linking within the resulting polychromic solid film, the use of
such cross-linking agents in the electrochromic monomer composition may
enhance the prolonged coloration performance of the resulting polychromic
solid film. Included among such cross-linking agents are polyfunctional
hydroxy compounds, such as glycols and glycerol, polyfunctional primary
or secondary amino compounds and polyfunctional mercapto compounds. Among
the preferred cross-linking agents are pentaerythritol,
2-ethyl-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1,3-propanediol, the poly (caprolactone) diols
having molecular weights of 1,250, 2,000 and 3,000, and polycarbonate
diol available from Polysciences, Inc. and the polyfunctional hydroxy
compounds commercially available under the "TONE" tradename from Union
Carbide Chemicals and Plastics Co. Inc., Danbury, Conn., such as
ε-caprolactone triols (known as "TONE" 0301, "TONE" 0305 and
"TONE" 0310). Among the preferred glycols are the poly(ethylene glycols),
like those sold under the "CARBOWAX" tradename by the Industrial Chemical
division of Union Carbide Corp., Danbury, Conn. such as "CARBOWAX" PEG
200, PEG 300, PEG 400, PEG 540 Blend, PEG 600, PEG 900, PEG 1000, PEG
1450, PEG 3350, PEG 4600, and PEG 8000, with "CARBOWAX" PEG 1450 being
the most preferred among this group, and those available from
Polysciences, Inc.

[0091]Polychromic solid films that perform well under prolonged coloration
may be prepared from electrochromic monomer compositions that contain as
a monomer component at least some portion of a polyfunctional
monomer--e.g., a difunctional monomer. By preferably using polyfunctional
monomers having their functional groups spaced apart to such an extent so
as to enhance the flexibility of the resulting polychromic solid film,
polychromic films may be prepared with a minimum of shrinkage during the
transformation process and that also perform well under prolonged
coloration.

[0092]While it is preferable to have electrochromic monomer compositions
which contain a monomer component having polyfunctionality in preparing
polychromic solid films that perform well under prolonged coloration,
electrochromic monomer compositions that exhibit enhanced resistance to
shrinkage when transformed into polychromic solid films preferably
contain certain monofunctional monomers. In this regard, depending on the
specific application, some physical properties and characteristics of
polychromic solid films may be deemed of greater import than others.
Thus, superior performance in terms of resistance to shrinkage during in
situ, curing of the electrochromic monomer composition to the polychromic
solid film may be balanced with the prolonged coloration performance of
the resulting polychromic solid film to achieve the properties and
characteristics desirable of that polychromic solid film.

[0093]Those of ordinary skill in the art may make appropriate choices
among the herein described monomers--monofunctional and polyfunctional,
such as difunctional--and cross-linking agents to prepare a polychromic
solid film having beneficial properties and characteristics for the
specific application by choosing such combinations of a monofunctional
monomer to a polyfunctional monomer or a monofunctional monomer to a
cross-linking agent in an equivalent ratio of about 1:1 or greater.

[0094]In the preferred electrochromic monomer compositions,
photoinitiators or photosensitizers may also be added to assist the
initiation of the in situ curing process. Such photoinitiators or
photsensitizers enhance the rapidity of the curing process when the
electrochromic monomer compositions are exposed to electromagnetic
radiation. These materials include, but are not limited to, radical
initiation type and cationic initiation type polymerization initiators
such as benzoin derivatives, like the n-butyl, i-butyl and ethyl benzoin
alkyl ethers, and those commercially available products sold under the
"ESACURE" tradename by Sartomer Co., such as "ESACURE" TZT (trimethyl
benzophenone blend), KB1 (benzildimethyl ketal), KB60 (60% solution of
benzildimethyl ketal), EB3 (mixture of benzoin n-butyl ethers), KIP 100F
(α-hydroxy ketone), KT37 (TZT and α-hydroxy ketone blend),
ITX (i-propylthioxanthone), X15 (ITX and TZT blend), and EDB
[ethyl-4-(dimethylamino]-benzoate]; those commercially available products
sold under the "IRGACURE" and "DAROCURE" tradenames by Ciba Geigy Corp.,
Hawthorne, N.Y., specifically "IRGACURE" 184, 907, 369, 500, 651, 261,
784 and "DAROCURE" 1173 and 4265, respectively; the photoinitiators
commercially available from Union Carbide Chemicals and Plastics Co.
Inc., Danbury, Conn., under the "CYRACURE" tradename, such as "CYRACURE"
UVI-6974 (mixed triaryl sulfonium hexafluoroantimonate salts) and
UVI-6990 (mixed triaryl sulfonium hexafluorophosphate salts); and the
visible light [blue] photoinitiator, dl-camphorquinone.

[0095]Of course, when those of ordinary skill in the art choose a
commercially available ultraviolet curable formulation, it may no longer
be desirable to include as a component within the electrochromic monomer
composition an additional monomer to that monomer component already
present in the commercial formulation. And, as many of such commercially
available ultraviolet curable formulations contain a photoinitiator or
photosensitizer, it may no longer be desirable to include this optional
component in the electrochromic monomer composition. Nevertheless, a
monomer, or a photoinitiator or a photosensitizer, may still be added to
the electrochromic monomer composition to achieve beneficial results, and
particularly when specific properties and characteristics are desired of
the resulting polychromic solid film.

[0096]With an eye toward maintaining the homogeneity of the electrochromic
monomer composition and the polychromic solid film which results after in
situ cure, those of ordinary skill in the art should choose the
particular components dispersed throughout, and their relative
quantities, appropriately. One or more compatibilizing agents may be
optionally added to the electrochromic monomer composition so as to
accomplish this goal. Such compatibilizing agents include, among others,
combinations of plasticizers recited herein, a monomer component having
polyfunctionality and cross-linking agents that provide flexible
cross-links. See supra.

[0097]Further, monomer compositions can be formed comprising both organic
and inorganic monomers. For example, inorganic monomers such as
tetraethylorthosilicate, titanium isopropoxide, metal alkoxides, and the
like may be included in the monomer composition, and formation of the
solid matrix (be it an organic polymer matrix, an inorganic polymer
matrix or an organic/inorganic polymer matrix) can proceed via a variety
of reaction mechanisms, including hydrolysis/condensation reactions.
Also, transition metal-peroxy acid products (such as tungsten peroxy acid
product) can be reacted with alcohol to form a peroxy-transition metal
derivative (such as peroxytungstic ester derivative), with a recitation
of such species being found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,457,218 entitled
"Precursor and Related Method of Forming Electrochromic Coatings",
invented by J. Cronin et al and issued Oct. 10, 1995, the disclosure of
which is hereby incorporated by reference herein, and can be used as a
component of the electrochromic monomer composition. Also, the
polychromic solid films may optionally be combined with inorganic and
organic films such as those of metal oxides (e.g., WO3, NiO,
IrO2, etc.) and organic films such a polyaniline. Examples of such
films are found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/429,643 filed Apr.
27, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,187, U.S. patent application Ser. No.
08/547,578 filed Oct. 24, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,729,379, and U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 08/330,090 filed Oct. 26, 1994, now U.S. Pat.
No. 5,780,160, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by
reference herein. Also, the devices of this present invention can benefit
from the use of elemental semiconductors layers or stacks, PRM,
anti-wetting adaption, synchronous manufacturing, multi-layer transparent
conducting stacks incorporating a thin metal layer overcoated with a
conducting metal oxide (such as a high reflectivity reflector comprising
around 1000 Å of silver metal or aluminum metal, overcoated with
about 1500 Å of ITO and with a reflectivity greater than 70% R and a
sheet resistance below 5 ohms/square), conducting seals, variable
intensity band pass filters, isolation valve vacuum backfilling, cover
sheets and on demand displays such as are disclosed in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 08/429,643 filed Apr. 27, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No.
5,724,187, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference
herein. Also, as further disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
08/429,643, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,187, the solid polymer films of this
present invention may comprise within their structure
electrochromatically active phthalocyanine-based and/or
phthalocyanine-derived moieties including transition metal
phthalocyanines such as zirconium phthalocyanine and molybdenum
phthalocyanine. Also, the solid polymer films of this invention can be
combined with an electron donor (e.g., TiO2)--spacer (salicylic acid
or phosphoric acid bound to the TiO2)--electron acceptor (a viologen
bound to the salicylic acid or to the phosphoric acid) heterodyad such as
described also in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/429,643, now U.S.
Pat. No. 5,724,187. Such donor-spacer-acceptor solid films can function
as an electrochromic solid film in combination with the polychromic solid
films of the present invention. Further, such as described in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 08/429,643, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,187, such
chemically modified nanoporous-nanocrystalline films, such as of
TiO2 with absorbed redox chromophores, can be used in a variety of
electrochromic devices and device constructions, including rearview
mirrors, glazings, architectural and vehicular glazings, displays,
filters, contrast enhancement filters and the like.

[0098]Many electrochromic compounds absorb electromagnetic radiation in
the about 290 nm to about 400 nm ultraviolet region. Because solar
radiation includes an ultraviolet region between about 290 nm to about
400 nm, it is often desirable to shield such electrochromic compounds
from ultraviolet radiation in that region. By so doing, the longevity and
stability of the electrochromic compounds may be improved. Also, it is
desirable that the polychromic solid film itself be stable to
electromagnetic radiation, particularly in that region. This may be
accomplished by adding to the electrochromic monomer composition an
ultraviolet stabilizing agent (and/or a self-screening plasticizer which
may act to block or screen such ultraviolet radiation) so as to extend
the functional lifetime of the resulting polychromic solid film. Such
ultraviolet stabilizing agents (and/or self-screening plasticizers)
should be substantially transparent in the visible region and function to
absorb ultraviolet radiation, quench degradative free radical reaction
formation and prevent degradative oxidative reactions.

[0099]As those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate, the
preferred ultraviolet stabilizing agents, which are usually employed on a
by-weight basis, should be selected so as to be compatible with the other
components of the electrochromic monomer composition, and so that the
physical, chemical or electrochemical performance of, as well as the
transformation into, the resulting polychromic solid film is not
adversely affected.

[0101]Since solar radiation includes an ultraviolet region only between
about 290 nm and 400 nm, the cure wave length of the electrochromic
monomer composition, the peak intensity of the source of electromagnetic
radiation, and the principle absorbance maxima of the ultraviolet
stability agents should be selected to provide a rapid and efficient
transformation of the electrochromic monomer compositions into the
polychromic solid films, while optimizing the continued long-term
post-cure stability to outdoor weathering and all-climate exposure of
polychromic solid films.

[0102]An electrolytic material may also be employed in the electrochromic
monomer composition to assist or enhance the conductivity of the
electrical current passing through the resulting polychromic solid film.
The electrolytic material may be selected from a host of known materials,
preferred of which are tetraethylammonium perchlorate, tetrabutylammonium
tetrafluoroborate, tetrabutylammonium hexafluorophosphate,
tetrabutylammonium trifluoromethane sulfonate, lithium salts and
combinations thereof, with tetrabutylammonium hexafluorophosphate and
tetraethylammonium perchlorate being the most preferred.

[0103]In addition, adhesion promoting agents or coupling agents may be
used in the preferred electrochromic monomer compositions to further
enhance the degree to which the resulting polychromic solid films adhere
to the contacting surfaces. Adhesion promoting or coupling agents, which
promote such enhanced adhesion, include silane coupling agents, and
commercially available adhesion promoting agents like those sold by
Sartomer Co., such as Alkoxylated Trifunctional Acrylate (9008),
Trifunctional Methacrylate Ester (9010 and 9011), Trifunctional Acrylate
Ester (9012), Aliphatic Monofunctional Ester (9013 and 9015) and
Aliphatic Difunctional Ester (9014). Moreover, carboxylated vinyl
monomers, such as methacrylic acid, vinyl carboxylic acid and the like
may be used to further assist the development of good adhesion to the
contacting surfaces.

[0104]And, coloring agents, spacers, anti-oxidizing agents, flame
retarding agents, heat stabilizing agents and combinations thereof may be
added to the electrochromic monomer compositions, choosing of course
those materials in appropriate quantities depending upon the specific
application of the resulting polychromic solid film. For instance, a
blue-tinted electrochromic automotive mirror, such as described herein,
may be prepared by dispersing within the electrochromic monomer
composition a suitable ultraviolet stable coloring agent, such as
"NEOZAPON" BLUE TM 807 (a phthalocyanine blue dye, available commercially
from BASF Corp., Parsippany, N.J.) and "NEOPEN" 808 (a phthalocyanine
blue dye, available commercially from BASF Corp.).

[0105]Polychromic solid films may be prepared within an electrochromic
device by introducing an electrochromic monomer composition to a film
forming means, such as the vacuum backfilling technique, which fills a
cavity of an assembly by withdrawing into the cavity the electrochromic
monomer composition while the assembly is in an environment of reduced
atmospheric pressure [see e.g., Varaprasad II], the two hole filling
technique, where the electrochromic monomer composition is dispensed
under pressure into the assembly through one hole while a gentle vacuum
is applied at the other hole [see e.g., Varaprasad III], or with the
sandwich lamination technique, which contemporaneously creates and fills
a cavity of an assembly by placing on one or both substrates either a
thermoplastic sealing means to act as a spacing means [see commonly
assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,233,461 (Dornan)] or glass beads of nominal
diameter, and then exposing to electromagnetic radiation at least one
clear substrate of the assembly constructed by any of the above
manufacturing techniques (containing the low viscosity electrochromic
monomer composition) for a time sufficient to transform the
electrochromic monomer composition into a polychromic solid film.

[0106]In connection with such film forming means, spacers, such as glass
beads, may be dispensed across the conductive surface of one or both
substrates, or dispersed throughout the electrochromic monomer
composition which may then be dispensed onto the conductive surface of
one or both substrates, to assist in preparing a polychromic solid film
which contacts, in abutting relationship, the conductive surface of the
two substrates. Similarly, a pre-established spacing means of solid
material, such as tape, pillars, walls, ridges and the like, may also be
employed to assist in determining the interpane distance between the
substrates in which a polychromic solid film may be prepared to contact,
in abutting relationship with, the conductive surface of the two
substrates.

[0107]Polychromic solid films may also be prepared separately from the
electrochromic device, and thereafter placed between, and in abutting
relationship with, the conductive surface of the two substrates used in
constructing the device. Many known film manufacturing processes may be
employed as a film forming means to manufacture polychromic solid films.
Included among these processes are calendering, casting, rolling,
dispensing, coating, extrusion and thermoforming. For a non-exhaustive
description of such processes, see Modern Plastics Encyclopedia 1988,
203-300, McGraw-Hill Inc., New York (1988). For instance, the
electrochromic monomer composition may be dispensed or coated onto the
conductive surface of a substrate, using conventional techniques, such as
curtain coating, spray coating, dip coating, spin coating, roller
coating, brush coating or transfer coating.

[0108]As described above, polychromic solid films may be prepared as a
self-supporting solid film which may thereafter be contacted with
conductive substrates.

[0109]For instance, an electrochromic monomer composition may be
continuously cast or dispensed onto a surface, such as a fluorocarbon
surface and the like, to which the polychromic solid film, transformed
therefrom by exposure to electromagnetic radiation, does not adhere. In
this way, polychromic solid films may be continuously prepared, and, for
example, reeled onto a take-up roller and stored for future use. Thus,
when a particular electrochromic device is desired, an appropriately
shaped portion of the stored polychromic solid film may be cut from the
roll using a die, laser, hot wire, blade or other cutting means. This now
custom-cut portion of polychromic solid film may be contacted with the
conductive substrates to form an electrochromic device.

[0110]For example, the custom-cut portion of the polychromic solid film
may be laminated between the conductive surface of two transparent
conductive coated substrates, such as ITO or tin oxide coated glass
substrates, two ITO or tin oxide coated "MYLAR" [polyethylene
terephthalate film (commercially available from E.I. du Pont de Nemours
and Co., Wilmington, Del.)] substrates or one ITO or tin oxide coated
glass substrate and one ITO or tin oxide coated "MYLAR" substrate. To
this end, it may be desirable to allow for residual cure in the stored
polychromic solid film so that adhesion to the conductive substrates in
the laminate to be formed is facilitated and optimized.

[0111]In this regard, a polychromic solid film may be prepared by the film
forming means of extrusion or calendaring wherein the electrochromic
monomer composition is transformed into the polychromic solid film by
exposure to electromagnetic radiation prior to, contemporaneously with,
or, if the electrochromic monomer composition is sufficiently viscous,
after passing through the extruder or calendar. Thereafter, the
polychromic solid film may be placed between, and in abutting
relationship with, the conductive surface of the substrates, and then
construction of the electrochromic device may be completed.

[0112]While preparing polychromic solid films, the viscosity of the
electrochromic monomer composition may be controlled to optimize its
dispensibility by adjusting the temperature of (1) the electrochromic
monomer composition itself, (2) the substrates on which the
electrochromic monomer composition may be placed to assemble the
electrochromic device or (3) the processing equipment used to prepare
polychromic solid films (if the polychromic film is to be prepared
independently from the substrates of the electrochromic devices). For
example, the temperature of the electrochromic monomer composition, the
substrates or the equipment or combinations thereof may be elevated to
decrease the viscosity of the electrochromic monomer composition.
Similarly, the uniformity on the substrate of the dispensed
electrochromic monomer composition may be enhanced using lamination
techniques, centrifuge techniques, pressure applied from the atmosphere
(such as with vacuum bagging), pressure applied from a weighted object,
rollers and the like.

[0113]The substrates employed in the electrochromic devices of the present
invention may be constructed from materials that are substantially
inflexible as well as flexible depending on the application to which they
are to be used. In this regard, the substrates may be constructed from
substantially inflexible substrates, such as glass, laminated glass,
tempered glass, optical plastics, such as polycarbonate, acrylic and
polystyrene, and flexible substrates, such as "MYLAR" film. Also, the
glass substrates suitable for use herein may be tinted specialized glass
which is known to significantly reduce ultraviolet radiation transmission
while maintaining high visible light transmission. Such glass, often
bearing a blue colored tint provides a commercially acceptable silvery
reflection to electrochromic automotive mirrors even when the polychromic
solid film is prepared containing an ultraviolet stabilizing agent or
other component which may have a tendency to imbue a yellowish appearance
to the polychromic solid film. Preferably, blue tinted specialized glass
may be obtained commercially from Pittsburgh Plate Glass Industries,
Pittsburgh, Pa. as "SOLEXTRA" 7010; Ford Glass Co., Detroit, Mich. as
"SUNGLAS" Blue; or Asahi Glass Co., Tokyo, Japan under the "SUNBLUE"
tradename.

[0114]Whether the chosen substrate is substantially inflexible or
flexible, a transparent conductive coating, such as indium tin oxide
("ITO") or doped-tin oxide, is coated on a surface of the substrate
making that surface suitable for placement in abutting relationship with
a polychromic solid film.

[0115]The choice of substrate may influence the choice of processing
techniques used to prepare the polychromic solid film or the type of
electrochromic device assembled. For example, when assembling an
electrochromic device from flexible substrates, an electrochromic monomer
composition may be advantageously applied to such flexible substrates
using a roll-to-roll system where the flexible substrates are released
from rolls (that are aligned and rotate in directions opposite to one
another), and brought toward one another in a spaced-apart relationship.
In this way, the electrochromic monomer composition may be dispensed or
injected onto one of the flexible substrates at the point where the two
flexible substrates are released from their respective rolls and brought
toward one another, while being contemporaneously exposed to
electromagnetic radiation for a time sufficient to transform the
electrochromic monomer composition into a polychromic solid film.

[0116]The dispensing of the electrochromic monomer composition may be
effected through a first injection nozzle positioned over one of the
rolls of flexible substrate. A weathering barrier forming material, such
as a curing epoxide like an ultraviolet curing epoxide, may be dispensed
in an alternating and synchronized manner onto that flexible substrate
through a second injection nozzle positioned adjacent to the first
injection nozzle. By passing in the path of these nozzles as a
continuously moving ribbon, a flexible substrate may be contacted with
the separate polymerizable compositions in appropriate amounts and
positions on the flexible substrate.

[0117]In manufacturing flexible electrochromic assemblies having a
dimension the full width of the roll of flexible substrate, a weathering
barrier forming material may be dispensed from the second injection
nozzle which may be positioned inboard (typically about 2 mm to about 25
mm) from the leftmost edge of the roll of flexible substrate. The first
injection nozzle, positioned adjacent to the second injection nozzle, may
dispense the electrochromic monomer composition onto most of the full
width of the roll of flexible substrate. A third injection nozzle, also
dispensing weathering barrier forming material, may be positioned
adjacent to, but inboard from, the rightmost edge of that roll of
flexible substrate (typically about 2 mm to about 25 mm). In this manner,
and as described above, a continuous ribbon of a flexible electrochromic
assembly may be formed (upon exposure to electromagnetic radiation)
which, in turn, may be taken up onto a take-up roller. By so doing, a
flexible electrochromic assembly having the width of the roll of flexible
substrate, but of a particular length, may be obtained by unrolling and
cutting to length an electrochromic assembly of a particular size.

[0118]Should it be desirable to have multiple flexible electrochromic
assemblies positioned in the same take-up roll, multiple nozzles may be
placed appropriately at positions throughout the width of one of the
rolls of flexible substrate, and the dispensing process carried out
accordingly.

[0119]In that regard, a small gap (e.g., about 5 mm to about 50 mm) should
be maintained where no dispensing occurs during the introduction of the
electrochromic monomer composition and the weathering barrier forming
material onto the substrate so that a dead zone is created where neither
the electrochromic monomer composition nor the weathering barrier forming
material is present. Once the weathering barrier and polychromic solid
film have formed (see infra), the electrochromic assembly may be isolated
by cutting along the newly created dead zones of the flexible assemblies.
This zone serves conveniently as a cutting area to form electrochromic
assemblies of desired sizes.

[0120]And, the zones outboard of the respective weathering barriers serve
as convenient edges for attachment of a means for introducing an applied
potential to the flexible electrochromic assemblies, such as bus bars.
Similarly, the bisection of the dead zones establishes a convenient
position onto which the bus bars may be Affixed.

[0121]While each of the weathering barrier forming material and the
electrochromic monomer composition may be transformed into a weathering
barrier and a polychromic solid film, respectively, by exposure to
electromagnetic radiation, the required exposures to complete the
respective transformations may be independent from one another. The
weathering barrier forming material may also be thermally cured to form
the weathering barrier.

[0122]The choice of a particular electromagnetic radiation region to
effect in situ cure may depend on the particular electrochromic monomer
composition to be cured. In this regard, typical sources of
electromagnetic radiation, such as ultraviolet radiation, include:
mercury vapor lamps; xenon arc lamps; "H", "D", "X", "M", "V" and "A"
fusion lamps (such as those commercially available from Fusion UV Curing
Systems, Buffalo Grove, Ill.); microwave generated ultraviolet radiation;
solar power and fluorescent light sources. Any of these electromagnetic
radiation sources may use in conjunction therewith reflectors and
filters, so as to focus the emitted radiation within a particular
electromagnetic region. Similarly, the electromagnetic radiation may be
generated directly in a steady fashion or in an intermittent fashion so
as to minimize the degree of heat build-up. Although the region of
electromagnetic radiation employed to in situ cure the electrochromic
monomer compositions into polychromic solid films is often referred to
herein as being in the ultraviolet region, that is not to say that other
regions of radiation within the electromagnetic spectrum may not also be
suitable. For instance, in certain situations, visible radiation may also
be advantageously employed.

[0123]Bearing in mind that some or all of the components of the
electrochromic monomer composition may inhibit, retard or suppress the in
situ curing process, a given source of electromagnetic radiation should
have a sufficient intensity to overcome the inhibitive effects of those
components so as to enable to proceed successfully the transformation of
the electrochromic monomer composition into the polychromic solid film.
By choosing a lamp with a reflector and, optionally, a filter, a source
which itself produces a less advantageous intensity of electromagnetic
radiation may suffice. In any event, the chosen lamp preferably has a
power rating of at least about 100 watts per inch (about 40 watts per
cm), with a power rating of at least about 300 watts per inch (about 120
watts per cm) being particularly preferred. Most preferably, the
wavelength of the lamp and its output intensity should be chosen to
accommodate the presence of ultraviolet stabilizing agents incorporated
into electrochromic monomer compositions. Also, a photoinitiator or
photosensitizer, if used, may increase the rate of in situ, curing or
shift the wavelength within the electromagnetic radiation spectrum at
which in situ curing will occur in the transformation process.

[0124]During the in situ curing process, the electrochromic monomer
composition will be exposed to a source of electromagnetic radiation that
emits an amount of energy, measured in KJ/m2, determined by
parameters including: the size, type and geometry of the source; the
duration of the exposure to electromagnetic radiation; the intensity of
the radiation (and that portion of radiation emitted within the region
appropriate to effect curing); the absorbance of electromagnetic
radiation by any intervening materials, such as substrates, conductive
coatings and the like; and the distance the electrochromic monomer
composition lies from the source of radiation. Those of ordinary skill in
the art will readily appreciate that the polychromic solid film
transformation may be optimized by choosing appropriate values for these
parameters in view of the particular electrochromic monomer composition.

[0125]The source of electromagnetic radiation may remain stationary while
the electrochromic monomer composition passes through its path.
Alternatively, the electrochromic monomer composition may remain
stationary while the source of electromagnetic radiation passes thereover
or therearound to complete the transformation into a polychromic solid
film. Still alternatively, both may traverse one another, or for that
matter remain stationary, provided that the electrochromic monomer
composition is exposed to the electrochromic radiation for a time
sufficient to effect such in situ curing.

[0127]Electromagnetic radiation in the near-infrared and far-infrared
(including short and long wavelengths from 3 microns to 30 microns and
beyond) regions of the electromagnetic spectrum can be used, as can
radiation in other regions such as microwave radiation. Thus, for
electrochromic monomer compositions responsive to energy input that
includes thermal energy, radiant heaters that emit in the infrared region
and couple energy into the monomer composition can be used. For
compositions responsive to microwave energy, a microwave generator can be
used. Also, for systems that respond, for example, to a combination of
energy inputs from different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, a
combined energy radiator can be used. For example, the Fusion UV Curing
System, Sunlight UV Chamber, Hanovia UV Curing System, and RC-500A Pulsed
UV Curing System described above emit energy efficiently in both the
ultraviolet region and the infrared region, and thus effect a cure both
by photoinitiation and thermally. For systems responsive to thermal
influences, ovens, lehrs, converyorized ovens, induction ovens, heater
banks and the like can be used to couple energy into the electrochromic
monomer composition by convection, conduction and/or radiation. Also,
chemical initiators and catalysts, photo initiators, latent curing agents
(such as are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/429,643,
now U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,187, the disclosure of which is hereby
incorporated by reference herein) and similar chemical accelerants can be
used to assist conversion of the electrochromic monomer composition into
a cross-linked solid polymer matrix. By customizing and selecting the
components of the electrochromic monomer composition, cure can be
retarded/suppressed until after the composition is applied within the
cavity of the electrochromic cell. Thereafter, by exposure to
electromagnetic radiation or thermal influence, cure to the solid polymer
matrix polychromic film can be accelerated. Since devices will not
typically be consumer used until at least days (often weeks or months)
after initial application of the monomer composition within the interpane
cell cavity, electrochromic monomer compositions can be composed that in
situ cure at room temperature (typically 15° to 30° C.)
over time once established within the interpane cavity (for example,
within 24 hours). Alternately, electrochromic devices can be thermally in
situ cured in an oven at a temperature, for example, of 60° C. or
higher for a time period of, for example, five minutes or longer with the
particular oven temperature and oven dwell time being readily established
by experimentation for any given electrochromic monomer composition. For
example, we find good results by exposure of the tin catalyzed
compositions of the Examples to about 80° C. in an oven for about
two hours. If faster curing systems are desired, then the monomer
composition can be appropriately adjusted, particularly by appropriate
selection of the type and concentration of initiators, curing agents,
catalysts, cross-linking agents, accelerants, etc.

[0128]The required amount of energy may be delivered by exposing the
electrochromic monomer composition to a less powerful source of
electromagnetic radiation for a longer period of time, through for
example multiple passes, or conversely, by exposing it to a more powerful
source of electromagnetic radiation for a shorter period of time. In
addition, each of those multiple passes may occur with a source at
different energy intensities. In any event, those of ordinary skill in
the art should choose an appropriate source of electromagnetic radiation
depending on the particular electrochromic monomer composition, and place
that source at a suitable distance therefrom which, together with the
length of exposure, optimizes the transformation process. Generally, a
slower controlled cure, such as that achieved by multiple passes using a
less intense energy source, may be preferable over a rapid cure using a
more intense energy source, for example, to minimize shrinkage during the
transformation process. Also, it is desirable to use a source of
electromagnetic radiation that is delivered in an intermittent fashion,
such as by pulsing or strobing, so as to ensure a thorough and complete
cure without causing excessive heat build-up.

[0129]In transforming electrochromic monomer compositions into polychromic
solid films, shrinkage may be observed during and after the
transformation process of the electrochromic monomer composition into a
polychromic solid film. This undesirable event may be controlled or
lessened to a large extent by making appropriate choices among the
components of the electrochromic monomer composition. For instance,
appropriately chosen polyfunctional monomers or cross-linking agents may
enhance resistance to shrinkage during the transformation process. In
addition, a conscious control of the type and amount of plasticizer used
in the electrochromic monomer composition may also tend to enhance
resistance to shrinkage. While shrinkage may also be observed with
polychromic solid films that have been subjected to environmental
conditions, especially conditions of environmental accelerated aging,
such as thermal cycling and low temperature soak, a conscious choice of
components used in the electrochromic monomer composition may tend to
minimize this event as well. In general, shrinkage may be decreased as
the molecular weight of the monomer employed is increased, and by using
index matched inert fillers, such as glass beads or fibres.

[0130]Electrochromic devices may be manufactured with polychromic solid
films of a particular thickness by preparing partially-cured polychromic
solid films between the glass substrates of electrochromic assemblies
with spacers or a thermoplastic spacing means having been placed on one
or both of the substrates. This partially-cured polychromic solid film
should have a thickness slightly greater than that which the resulting
polychromic solid film will desirably assume in the completed device. The
electrochromic assemblies should then be subjected to compression, such
as that provided by an autoclave/vacuum bagging process, and thereafter
be exposed to electromagnetic radiation to complete the transformation
into a polychromic solid film with the desired film thickness.

[0131]FIGS. 1 and 2 show an electrochromic device assembled from the
polychromic solid films of the present invention. The electrochromic
assembly 1 includes two. substantially planar substrates 2, 3 positioned
substantially parallel to one another. It is preferable that these
substrates 2, 3 be positioned as close to parallel to one another as
possible so as to avoid double imaging, which is particularly noticeable
in mirrors, especially when the electrochromic media--i.e., the
polychromic solid film--is colored to a dimmed state.

[0132]A source of an applied potential need be introduced to the
electrochromic assembly 1 so that polychromic solid film 6 may color in a
rapid, intense and uniform manner. That source may be connected by
electrical leads 8 to conducting strips, such as bus bars 7. The bus bars
7 may be constructed of a metal, such as copper, stainless steel,
aluminum or solder, or of conductive frits and epoxides, and should be
affixed to a conductive coating 4, coated on a surface of each of the
substrates 2, 3. An exposed portion of the conductive coating 4 should be
provided for the bus bars 7 to adhere by the displacement of the coated
substrates 2, 3 in opposite directions relative to each other--lateral
from, but parallel to--, with polychromic solid film 6 positioned
between, and in abutting relationship with, the conductive surface of the
two substrates.

[0133]As noted above, coated on a surface of each of these substrates 2, 3
is a substantially transparent conductive coating 4. The conductive
coating 4 is generally from about 300 Å to about 10,000 Å in
thickness, having a refractive index in the range of about 1.6 to about
2.2. Preferably, a conductive coating 4 with a thickness of about 1,200
Å to about 2,300 Å, having a refractive index of about 1.7 to
about 1.9, is chosen depending on the desired appearance of the substrate
when the polychromic solid film situated therebetween is colored.

[0134]The conductive coating 4 should also be highly and uniformly
conductive in each direction to provide a substantially uniform response
as to film coloring once a potential is applied. The sheet resistance of
these transparent conductive substrates 2, 3 may be below about 100 ohms
per square, with about 6 ohms per square to about 20 ohms per square
being preferred. Such substrates 2, 3 may be selected from among those
commercially available as glass substrates, coated with indium tin oxide
("ITO") from Donnelly Corporation, Holland, Mich., or tin oxide-coated
glass substrates sold by the LOF Glass division of Libbey-Owens-Ford Co.,
Toledo, Ohio under the tradename of "TEC-Glass" products, such as "TEC
10" (10 ohms per square sheet resistance), "TEC 12" (12 ohms per square
sheet resistance), "TEC 15" (15 ohms per square sheet resistance) and
"TEC 20" (20 ohms per square sheet resistance) tin oxide-coated glass.
Moreover, tin oxide coated glass substrates, commercially available from
Pittsburgh Plate Glass Industries, Pittsburgh, Pa. under the "SUNGATE"
tradename, may be advantageously employed herein. Also, substantially
transparent conductive coated flexible substrates, such as ITO deposited
onto substantially clear or tinted "MYLAR", may be used. Such flexible
substrates are commercially available from Southwall Corp., Palo Alto,
Calif.

[0135]The conductive coating 4 coated on each of substrates 2, 3 may be
constructed from the same material or different materials, including tin
oxide, ITO, ITO-FW, ITO-HW, ITO-HWG, doped tin oxide, such as
antimony-doped tin oxide and fluorine-doped tin oxide, doped zinc oxide,
such as antimony-doped zinc oxide and aluminum-doped zinc oxide, with ITO
being preferred.

[0136]The substantially transparent conductive coated substrates 2, 3 may
be of the full-wave length-type ("FW") (about 6 ohms per square to about
8 ohms per square sheet resistance), the half-wave length-type ("HW")
(about 12 ohms per square to about 15 ohms per square sheet resistance)
or the half-wave length green-type ("HWG") (about 12 ohms per square to
about 15 ohms per square sheet resistance). The thickness of FW is about
3,000 Å in thickness, HW is about 1,500 Å in thickness and HWG is
about 1,960 Å in thickness, bearing in mind that these substantially
transparent conductive coated substrates 2, 3 may vary as much as about
100 to about 200 Å. HWG has a refractive index of about 1.7 to about
1.8, and has an optical thickness of about five-eighths wave to about
two-thirds wave. HWG is generally chosen for electrochromic devices,
especially reflective devices, such as mirrors, whose desired appearance
has a greenish hue in color when a potential is applied.

[0137]Optionally, and for some applications desirably, the spaced-apart
substantially transparent conductive coated substrates 2, 3 may have a
weather barrier 5 placed therebetween or therearound. The use of a
weather barrier 5 in the electrochromic devices of the present invention
is for the purpose of preventing environmental contaminants from entering
the device during long-term use under harsh environmental conditions
rather than to prevent escape of electrochromic media, such as with an
electrochemichromic device. Weather barrier "5 may be made from many
known materials, with epoxy resins coupled with spacers, plasticized
polyvinyl butyral (available commercially under the "SAFLEX" tradename
from Monsanto Co., St. Louis, Mo.), ionomer resins (available
commercially under the "SURLYN" tradename from E.I. du Pont de Nemours
and Co., Wilmington, Del.) and "KAPTON" high temperature polyamide tape
(available commercially from E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Co., Wilmington,
Del.) being preferred. In general, it may be desirable to use within the
electrochromic device, and particularly for weather barrier 5, materials
such as nitrile containing polymers and butyl rubbers that form a good
barrier against oxygen permeation from environmental exposure.

[0138]A further recitation of weather barrier materials and types
(including single and double weather barrier constructions) is found in
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/429,643 filed Apr. 27, 1995, now U.S.
Pat. No. 5,724,187, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by
reference herein, including flexible weather barrier materials that are
beneficial when the polychromic solid film devices of this invention are
exposed to wide and rapid oscillation between temperature extremes, such
as the thermal shocks experienced during normal use in or on a vehicle in
regions of climate extremes. Also, devices, such as electrochromic
rearview mirrors utilizing a polychromic solid film, can be constructed
suitable for use on automobiles, and suitable to withstand accelerated
aging testing such as boiling in water for an extended period (such as 96
hours or longer); exposure to high temperature/high humidity for an
extended period (for example, 85° C./85% relative humidity for 720
hours or longer); exposure within a steam autoclave for extended periods
(for example, 121° C.; 15-18 psi steam for 144 hours or longer).

[0139]In the sandwich lamination technique, see supra, it is the thickness
of the polychromic solid film itself, especially when a highly viscous
electrochromic monomer composition is used, optionally coupled with
either spacers or a thermoplastic spacing means, assembled within the
electrochromic devices of the present invention that determines the
interpane distance of the spaced-apart relationship at which the
substrates are positioned. This interpane distance may be influenced by
the addition of spacers to the electrochromic monomer composition, which
spacers, when added to an electrochromic monomer composition, assist in
defining the film thickness of the resulting polychromic solid film. And,
the thickness of the polychromic solid film may be about 10 μm to
about 1000 μm, with about 20 μm to about 200 μm being preferred,
a film thickness of about 37 μm to about 74 μm being particularly
preferred, and a film thickness of about 53 μm being most preferred
depending of course on the chosen electrochromic monomer composition and
the intended application.

[0140]By taking appropriate measures, electrochromic devices manufactured
with polychromic solid films may operate so that, upon application of a
potential thereto, only selected portions of the device--i.e., through
the polychromic solid film--will color in preference to the remaining
portions of the device. In such segmented electrochromic devices, lines
may be scored or etched onto the conductive surface of either one or both
of substrates 2, 3, in linear alignment so as to cause a break in
electrical continuity between regions immediately adjacent to the break,
by means such as chemical etching, mechanical scribing, laser etching,
sand blasting and other equivalent means. By so doing, an addressable
pixel may be created by the break of electrical continuity when a
potential is applied to a pre-determined portion of the electrochromic
device. The electrochromic device colors in only that pre-determined
portion demonstrating utility, for example, as an electrochromic mirror,
where only a selected portion of the mirror advantageously colors to
assist in reducing locally reflected glare or as an electrochromic
information display device.

[0141]To prepare an electrochromic device containing a polychromic solid
film, the electrochromic monomer composition may be dispensed onto the
conductive surface of one of the substrates 2 or 3. The conductive
surface of the other substrate may then be placed thereover so that the
electrochromic monomer composition is dispersed uniformly onto and
between the conductive surface of substrates 2, 3.

[0142]This assembly may then be exposed, either in a continuous or
intermittent manner, to electromagnetic radiation, such as ultraviolet
radiation in the region between about 200 nm to about 400 nm for a period
of about 2 seconds to about 10 seconds, so that the electrochromic
monomer composition is transformed by in situ curing into polychromic
solid film 6. The intermittent manner may include multiple exposures to
such energy.

[0143]Once the electrochromic device is assembled with polychromic solid
film 6, a potential may be applied to the bus bars 7 in order to induce
film coloring. The applied potential may be supplied from a variety of
sources including, but not limited to, any source of alternating current
("AC") or direct current ("DC") known in the art, provided that, if an AC
source is chosen, control elements, such as diodes, should be placed
between the source and each of the conductive coatings 4 to ensure that
the potential difference between the conductive coatings 4 does not
change polarity with variations in polarity of the applied potential from
the source. Suitable DC sources are storage batteries, solar thermal
cells, photovoltaic cells or photoelectrochemical cells.

[0144]An electrochromic device, such as an electrochromic shade band where
a gradient opacity panel may be constructed by positioning the bus bars 7
along the edges of the substrates in such a way so that only a
portion--e.g., the same portion--of each of the substrates 2, 3 have the
bus bars 7 affixed thereto. Thus, where the bus bars 7 are aligned with
one another on opposite substrates 2, 3, the introduction of an applied
potential to the electrochromic device will cause intense color to be
observed in only that region of the device onto which an electric field
has been created--i.e., only that region of the device having the bus
bars 7 so aligned. A portion of the remaining bleached region will also
exhibit color extending from the intensely colored region at the bus
bar/non-bus bar transition gradually dissipating into the remaining
bleached region of the device.

[0145]The applied potential generated from any of these sources may be
introduced to the polychromic solid film of the electrochromic device in
the range of about 0.001 volts to about 5.0 volts. Typically, however, a
potential of about 0.2 volts to about 2.0 volts is preferred, with about
1 volt to about 1.5 volts particularly preferred, to permit the current
to flow across and color the polychromic solid film 6 so as to lessen the
amount of light transmitted therethrough. The extent of coloring--i.e.,
high transmittance, low transmittance and intermediate transmittance
levels--at steady state in a particular device will often depend on the
potential difference between the conductive surface of the substrates 2,
3, which relationship permits the electrochromic devices of the present
invention to be used as "gray-scale" devices, as that term is used by
those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0146]A zero potential or a potential of negative polarity (i.e., a
bleaching potential) may be applied to the bus bars 7 in order to induce
high light transmittance through polychromic solid film 6. A zero
potential to about -0.2 volts will typically provide an acceptable
response time for bleaching; nevertheless, increasing the magnitude of
the negative potential to about -0.7 volts will often enhance response
times. And, a further increase in the magnitude of that potential to
about -0.8 volts to about -0.9 volts, or a magnitude of even more
negative polarity as the art-skilled should readily appreciate, may
permit polychromic solid film 6 to form a light-colored tint while
colored to a partial- or fully-dimmed state.

[0147]In electrochromic devices where the polychromic solid film is formed
within the assembly by exposure to electromagnetic radiation, the
performance of the device may be enhanced by applying the positive
polarity of the potential to the substrate that faced the electromagnetic
radiation during the transformation process. Thus, in the case of
electrochromic mirrors manufactured in such a manner, the positive
polarity of the potential should be applied to the conductive surface of
the clear, front glass substrate, and the negative polarity of the
potential applied to the conductive surface of the silvered, rear glass
substrate, to observe such a beneficial effect.

[0148]In the context of an electrochromic mirror assembly, a reflective
coating, having a thickness in the range of 250 Å to about 2,000
Å, preferably about 1,000 Å, should thereafter be applied to one
of the transparent conductive coated glass substrates 2 or 3 in order to
form a mirror. Suitable materials for this layer are aluminum, pladium,
platinum, titanium, gold, chromium, silver and stainless steel, with
silver being preferred. As an alternative to such metal reflectors,
multi-coated thin film stacks of dielectric materials or a high index
single dielectric thin film coating may be used as a reflector.
Alternatively, one of the conductive coatings 4 may be a metallic
reflective layer which serves not only as an electrode, but also as a
mirror.

[0149]It is clear from the teaching herein that should a window, sun roof
or the like be desirably constructed, the reflective coating need only be
omitted from the assembly so that the light which is transmitted through
the transparent panel is not further assisted in reflecting back
therethrough.

[0150]Similarly, an electrochromic optically attenuating contrast filter
may be manufactured in the manner described above, optionally
incorporating into the electrochromic assembly an anti-reflective means,
such as a coating, on the front surface of the outermost substrate as
viewed by an observer (see e.g., Lynam V); an anti-static means, such as
a conductive coating, particularly a transparent conductive coating of
ITO, tin oxide and the like; index matching means to reduce internal and
interfacial reflections, such as thin films of an appropriately selected
optical path length; and/or light absorbing glass, such as glass tinted
to a neutral density, such as "GRAYLITE" gray tinted glass (commercially
available from Pittsburgh Plate Glass Industries, Pittsburgh, Pa.) and
"SUNGLAS" Gray gray tinted glass (commercially available from Ford Glass
Co., Detroit, Mich.), to augment contrast enhancement. Moreover, polymer
interlayers, which may be tinted gray, such as those used in
electrochromic constructions as described in Lynam III, may be
incorporated into such electrochromic optically attenuating contrast
filters.

[0151]Electrochromic optical attenuating contrast filters may be an
integral part of a device or may be affixed to an already constructed
device, such as cathode ray tube monitors. For instance, an optical
attenuating contrast filter may be manufactured from a polychromic solid
film and then affixed, using a suitable optical adhesive, to a device
that should benefit from the properties and characteristics exhibited by
the polychromic solid film. Such optical adhesives maximize optical
quality and optical matching, and minimize interfacial reflection, and
include plasticized polyvinyl butyral, various silicones, polyurethanes
such as "NORLAND NOA 65" and "NORLAND NOA 68", and acrylics such as
"DYMAX LIGHT-WELD 478". In such contrast filters, the electrochromic
compounds are chosen for use in the polychromic solid film so that the
electrochromic assembly may color to a suitable level upon the
introduction of an applied potential thereto, and no undesirable spectral
bias is exhibited. Preferably, the polychromic solid film should dim
through a substantially neutral colored partial transmission state, to a
substantially neutral colored full transmission state.

[0152]Polychromic solid films may be used in electrochromic devices,
particularly glazings and mirrors, whose functional surface is
substantially planar or flat, or that are curved with a convex curvature,
a compound curvature, a multi-radius curvature, a spherical curvature, an
aspheric curvature, or combinations of such curvature. For example, flat
electrochromic automotive mirrors may be manufactured using the
polychromic solid films of the present invention. Also, convex
electrochromic automotive mirrors may be manufactured, with radii of
curvature typically in the range of about 25'' to about 250''; preferably
in the range of about 35'' to about 100'', as are conventionally known.
In addition, multi-radius automotive mirrors, such as those described in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,449,786 (McCord), may be manufactured using the
polychromic solid films of the present invention. Multi-radius automotive
mirrors may be used typically on the driver-side exterior of an
automobile to extend the driver's field of view and to enable the driver
to safely see rearward and to avoid blind-spots in the rearward field of
view. Generally, such mirrors comprise a higher radius (even flat) region
closer to the driver and a lower radius (i.e., more curved) region
outboard from the driver that serves principally as the blind-spot
detection zone in the mirror.

[0153]Indeed, such polychromic solid film-containing electrochromic
multi-radius automotive mirrors may benefit from the prolonged coloration
performance of polychromic solid films and/or from the ability to address
individual segments in such mirrors.

[0154]Often, a demarcation means, such as a silk-screened or otherwise
applied line of black epoxy, may be used to separate the more curved,
outboard blind-spot region from the less curved, inboard region of such
mirrors. The demarcation means may also include an etching of a deletion
line or an otherwise established break in the electrical continuity of
the transparent conductors used in such mirrors so that either one or
both regions may be individually or mutually addressed. Optionally, this
deletion line may itself be colored black. Thus, the outboard, more
curved region may operate independently from the inboard, less curved
region to provide an electrochromic mirror that operates in a segmented
arrangement. Upon the introduction of an applied potential, either of
such regions may color to a dimmed intermediate reflectance level,
independent of the other region, or, if desired, both regions may operate
together in tandem.

[0155]An insulating demarcation means, such as demarcation lines, dots
and/or spots, may be placed within electrochromic devices, such as
mirrors, glazings, optically attenuating contrast filters and the like,
to assist in creating the interpane distance of the device and to enhance
overall performance, in particular the uniformity of coloration across
large area devices. Such insulating demarcation means, constructed from,
for example, epoxy coupled with glass spacer beads, plastic tape or die
cut from plastic tape, may be placed onto the conductive surface of one
or more substrates by silk-screening or other suitable technique prior to
assembling the device. The insulating demarcation means may be
geometrically positioned across the panel, such as in a series of
parallel, uniformly spaced-apart lines, and may be clear, opaque, tinted
or colorless and appropriate combinations thereof, so as to appeal to the
automotive stylist.

[0156]If the interpane distance between the substrates is to be, for
example, about 250 μm then the insulating demarcation means (being
substantially non-deformable) may be screened, acted or adhered to the
conductive surface of a substrate at a lesser thickness, for example,
about 150 μm to about 225 μm. Of course, if substantially
deformable materials are used as such demarcation means, a greater
thickness, for example, about 275 μm to about 325 μm may be
appropriate as well. Alternatively, the insulating demarcation means may
have a thickness about equal to that of the interpane distance of the
device, and actually assist in bonding together the two substrates of the
device.

[0157]In any event, the insulating demarcation means should prevent the
conductive surfaces of the two substrates (facing one another in the
assembled device) from contacting locally one another to avoid
short-circuiting the electrochromic system. Similarly, should the
electrochromic device be touched, pushed, impacted and the like at some
position, the insulating demarcation means, present within the interpane
distance between the substrates, should prevent one of the conductive
surfaces from touching, and thereby short-circuiting, the other
conductive surface. This may be particularly advantageous when flexible
substrates, such as ITO-coated "MYLAR", are used in the electrochromic
device.

[0158]Although spacers may be added to the electrochromic monomer
composition and/or distributed across the conductive surface of one of
the substrates prior to assembling the device, such random distribution
provides a degree of uncertainty as to their ultimate location within the
electrochromic device. By using such a screen-on technique as described
above, a more defined and predictable layout of the insulating
demarcation means may be achieved. Further, such spacers may be a rigid
insoluble spacer material such as glass or be rigid soluble spacer
material (such as a polymer such as polycarbonate,
polymethylmethacrylate, polystyrene and the like) capable of dissolving
in the plasticizer of the monomer composition. For example, rigid,
soluble polymer spacer beads can be sprinkled across the conductive
surface of a substrate and so help define an interpane spacing when the
device is first assembled. Then, when the monomer composition is
dispensed into the interpane spacing (after the establishment of the
interpane spacing with the assistance of soluble polymer spacers), then
over time the soluble spacer beads dissolve in the plasticizer,
preferably prior to in situ conversion to the solid polychromic film.

[0159]Using such insulating demarcation means, one or both of the
substrates, either prior to or after assembly in the device, may be
divided into separate regions with openings or voids within the
insulating demarcation means interconnecting adjacent regions so as to
permit a ready introduction of the electrochromic monomer composition
into the assembly.

[0160]A demarcation means may be used that is conductive as well, provided
that it is of a smaller thickness than the interpane distance and/or a
layer of an insulating material, such as a non-conductive epoxy, urethane
or acrylic, is applied thereover so as to prevent conductive surfaces
from contacting one another and thus short-circuiting the electrochromic
assembly.

[0161]Such conductive demarcation means include conductive frits, such as
silver frits like the #7713 silver conductive fit available commercially
from E.I. de Pont de Nemours and Co., Wilmington, Del., conductive paint
or ink and/or metal films, such as those disclosed in Lynam IV. Use of a
conductive demarcation means, such as a line of the #7713 silver
conductive fit, having a width of about 0.09375'' and a thickness of
about 50 μm, placed on the conductive surface of one of the substrates
of the electrochromic device may provide the added benefit of enhancing
electrochromic performance by reducing bus bar-to-bus bar overall
resistance and thus enhancing uniformity of coloration, as well as
rapidity of response, particularly over large area devices.

[0162]Fabrication of electrochromic multi-radius/aspheric or
spherical/convex mirrors can benefit from single or tandem bending such
as is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/429,643, now U.S.
Pat. No. 5,724,187, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by
reference herein. Convex or multi-radius minilites/shapes can, for
example, be individually bent [and thereafter ITO coated or metal
reflector coated (such as with a chromium metal reflector, a chromium
undercoat, rhodium overcoat metal reflector, a chromium
undercoat/aluminum overcoat reflector, or their like, such as is
described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/429,643, now U.S. Pat.
No. 5,724,187, and then the individual bent minilites/shapes can be
selectively sorted so that the best matched pairs from a production batch
can be selected. For example, bent convex or aspheric minilites/shapes
can be bent in production lots such as of 100 pieces or thereabouts.
Thereafter, each individual bent minilite/shape is placed in a vision
system where the reflection of a pattern of dots, squares, lines,
circles, ovals (or the like) is photographed using a digital camera and
the position of individual dots, etc., in the pattern, as reflected off
the individual minilite/shape being measured, is captured and stored
digitally in a computer storage. Each individual minilite/shape, in turn,
is similarly measured and a digital image of the reflected image of each
part's pattern is also computer stored. An identifier is allocated to
each minilite/shape and to its corresponding computer stored record of
the reflected image of the pattern. Next, a computer program finds which
combination of two minilites/shapes have most closely matched reflected
images of the fixed pattern (which typically is a dot matrix or the
like). This is achieved, for example, by finding how close the center of
one reflected dot on a given part is located apart from its corresponding
dot on another part. For perfectly matched parts, corresponding dots
coincide; when they are located apart, then a local mismatch is
occurring. Thus, by using a dot matrix of, for example, 10 to 100 dots
reflected off a given part, and forming the sum of the squares of the
absolute inter-dot distances to give a figure of merit for each putative
from match, then minilites/shapes can be selectively sorted by selecting
the matched pairs with the lowest inter-dot distances as indicated by the
smallest figure of merit. Alternately, a pattern with a measured,
pre-established distortion can be designed such that, upon reflection off
the convex (or concave) surface of a bent minilite/shape, the pattern is
reflected as straight, parallel lines. The equipment suitable to use in a
vision system is conventional in the machine vision art and includes a
digital camera (such as a charge coupled device (CCD) camera or a video
microchip camera (CMOS camera)), a frame grabber/video computer
interface, and a computer. Typically the camera is mounted above
(typically 1 foot to 4 feet above, or even farther above) the subject
minilite/shape, and the camera views through the pattern (that typically
is an illuminated light box with the pattern incorporated therein) to
view the pattern's reflection off the convex (or, if desired, the
concave) surface of the bent part. If desired, optical calculations can
be made that allow determination of the actual profile of the bent glass
based upon measurements taken and calculated from the pattern's
reflection.

[0163]Also, an aspheric electrochromic (or a convex electrochromic) mirror
can be used as an interior rearview mirror, and can be packaged as a
clip-on to an existing vehicular rearview mirror in a manner that is
similar to aftermarket wide angle mirrors conventionally known. Such
interior aspheric/convex electrochromic mirrors can optionally be solar
powered or be powered by a battery pack, for ease of installation in the
vehicular aftermarket. Should it be desirable to minimize weight for
convex or aspheric inside or outside mirrors, then thin glass (in the
thickness range of about 1 mm to about 1.8 mm, or even thinner) can be
used for one or both of the substrates used in a laminate electrochromic
assembly. Use of such thin glass is described in U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 08/429,643 filed Apr. 27, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,187, the
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Also,
cutting of convex and especially aspheric glass can benefit from computer
numerical controlled (CNC) cutting where a cutting head is moved under
digital computer control. In this regard, a multi-axis CNC cutter is
preferred where the cutting head (which may be a diamond tool or wheel, a
laser beam, a water jet, an abrasive water jet, or the like) can be moved
in three dimensions. Most preferably, and especially for cutting aspheric
bent glass, a cutter that moves in three dimensions but that keeps the
cutting tool (such as a diamond wheel) normal (i.e., with a cutting wheel
axis at or close to 90° to the tangential plane of the bent glass
surface) is preferred. For example, a cutting machine such as available
from LASER Maschlnenbau GmbH & Company KG, Grossbetlingen, Germany can be
used to cut aspheric glass. In such a system, the bent glass
lite/minilite from which the shape is to be cut is mounted on a support
arm that is movable in three dimensions and that generally moves in three
dimensions either CNC driven, or by following a cam, along the
three-dimensional profile of the aspheric shape being cut. Also, the
cutting wheel can be adjusted so that its angle relative to a tangent to
the glass at point of cut is close to 90° (and not less than about
70°; not less than about 80° more preferred and not less
than about 85° most preferred). In this manner, movement of the
cutting support under the cutting wheel, in combination with adjustment
of the pitch of the cutting wheel itself, maintains as close to normal
(i.e., 90°) the cutting angle as possible, and thus achievement of
a clean, efficient cut and breakout of the shape. While particularly
beneficial for aspheric shapes where the radius can change from about
2000 mm to below 600 mm, and smaller, across the surface of the shape,
cutting of convex glass can also benefit from maintenance of a near
normal cutting angle for the cutting tool (i.e., cutting wheel).

[0164]Optionally, a machine vision system can be utilized to determine the
surface profile of the glass to be cut and the data as to the profile is
fed back to the cutter's CNC controller to properly orientate the glass
under the cutting head. Use of a vision system, such as is described
above, to scan and measure the system profile of the glass to be cut can
be thus used to determine how much offset there is on the radius of the
glass relative to the cutting head. CNC controlled sensors can be
automatically adjusted on every cutting cycle based on the information
received from the vision system. A five-axis shape cutter that allows the
cutting head to remain approximately perpendicular to the surface of the
glass regardless of the radius of curvature is commercially available,
such as from LASER Maschlnenbau GmbH & Company KG, Grossbetlingen,
Germany. Also, if desired and particularly for thin glass substrates, the
front substrate and/or rear substrate can be toughened or tempered (such
as by, for example, chemical tempering or contact tempering) such as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,239,405 entitled "Near-Infrared Reflecting,
Ultraviolet Protected, Safety Protected Vehicular Glazing" invented by N.
Lynam and issued Aug. 24, 1993, the disclosure of which is hereby
incorporated by reference herein. Also, an exterior mirror of this
invention can be attached to the backplate commonly used to mount to the
actuator used in an exterior complete mirror assembly (as is commonly
known in automotive mirror art) by use of a double-sticky tape such as is
described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,572,384 (see supra) or can be attached using
a hot melt adhesive that is applied to the rearmost surface of the
laminate glass assembly (i.e., the rear surface of the rear glass
substrate, often referred to as the fourth surface of the laminate
assembly). Preferably, such hot melt adhesive, when cured, is flexible,
provides an anti-scatter function meeting automotive safety specification
and most preferably, is electrically conductive (such as by inclusion of
conductive carbon or conductive metal flakes or fibrils, such as copper,
brass, aluminum or steel fibrils). Also, a heater can be attached to the
rearmost surface of the laminate construction formed by sandwiching the
electrochromic medium between the first and second (i.e., front and rear)
substrates of an electrochromic rearview mirror device, Such heater can
be directly applied to the rearmost glass surface, or can be a separate
heater pad, such as is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
08/429,643 filed Apr. 27, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,187, the
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
Preferably, the heater is combined with the mirror reflector mounting
plate (also known in the automotive mirror art as the mirror backing
plate or the mirror backplate). More preferably, the heater and/or the
mirror backing plate is formed (such as by injection molding, extrusion
and the like) of a conductive polymer material such as a polymer resin
incorporating conductive carbon or conductive metal flakes or fibrils
(such as of copper, brass, aluminum, steel or equivalent metal). Most
preferably, the heater and the mirror backing plate are formed and
attached to the mirror element in an integral molding operation as
follows. The mirror reflector glass (that preferably is an electrochromic
mirror cell but that, optionally, can be a conventional mirror reflector
such as chromed glass) is placed in a mold. A heater (such as a positive
temperature coefficient heater pad, or a pad formed from a conductive
polymer resin that incorporates metal or carbon conducting particles, or
a pad formed from a resin that is intrinsically self-conducting in its
resin structure such as a polyaniline resin), is either injection molded
onto the rearmost glass surface of the glass reflector element
(optionally, with an adhesion promoting primer already applied to the
rearmost glass surface and/or with a heat transfer agent applied to the
rearmost glass surface), or is attached to the rearmost glass surface (or
is already pre-attached to the rearmost glass surface) using a
double-sticky tape or a hot melt adhesive (preferably, also conducting
and/or of high heat transfer efficiency such as aluminum foil). Finally,
a plastic resin is injection molded to form the mirror backing plate
(and, optionally, the bezel around the outer perimeter of an
electrochromic sideview mirror sub-assembly as is commonly known in the
electrochromic rearview mirror art). The backing plate for the mirror
element is the means for attachment to the electrical or manually
operated actuator within the complete outside sideview mirror assembly
that enables the driver to change the orientation of the mirror reflector
when mounted on the vehicle and to select the mirror's alignment relative
to the driver and thus select the rearward view that suits that
particular driver's needs for field of view rearward. By integral
molding, the conventionally separate steps of separately attaching a
heater pad to the mirror glass and then attaching a separately formed
backing plate can be reduced to a single integral molding step where
components, including the mirror glass, are loaded into a mold, plastic
resin is injected or plastic resins are co-injected, and a complete
sub-assembly (including heater, connectors, bus bars, wire leads/wire
harnesses, heat distributors, thermistors, thermal cut-off switches,
backing plate, bezel, etc.) is unloaded from the tool after completion of
the integral molding step.

[0165]Further, vehicle warning indicia such as the familiar "OBJECTS MAY
BE CLOSER THAN THEY APPEAR" can be created (such as by silk-screening,
dispensing, printing, etc.) using a conductive material (such as a
conductive ink, conductive paint, conductive polymer and the like). In
this way, electrical conductivity is maintained across the full surface
of the inward facing surface of the rear substrate (frequently called the
third surface). Where a metal reflector (such as a chromium layer or an
underlayer of chromium overcoated with a higher reflecting metal layer
such as of silver, aluminum or rhodium) is used as a third surface
reflector, the metal reflector can first be deposited (such as by sputter
deposition utilizing planar magnetron or rotary magnetron cathodes) onto
the conductive surface of TEC glass (or any other transparent conductive
coated surface). Next, the metal reflector can be selectively removed to
form the desired indicia (i.e., a "HEATED" symbol, a manufacturer's date
code and ID, a hazard warning indicia such is commonly found on signal
mirrors such as are available on MY97 Ford Bronco and Ford Expedition
vehicles available from Ford Motor Company, Detroit, Mich. and as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,207,492 invented by Roberts and issued May
1993, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference
herein). The metal reflector can be removed using chemical etching
through a mask or directly using laser scribing (such as with a YAG
laser), by controlled sandblasting, and the like. By selectively removing
the overlayering metal reflector but leaving the underlying transparent
conductor largely intact, electrical conductivity across the third
surface (i.e., the inward facing surface of the rear substrate) is
largely undistributed, and electrochromic coloration is correspondingly
uniform. Should it be desired to read an indicia on a third surface, then
backlighting can be provided on the fourth surface (i.e., the non-inward
facing surface of the rear substrate) that can be viewed by reading
through the indicia created on the third surface by removing a third
surface metal reflector. Also, optionally, a conductive indicia of a
non-dark color (such as brilliant white) could be created on the surface
(i.e., the inward facing surface of the front substrate) of the laminate
electrochromic assembly. Thus, when the electrochromic medium colors, the
indicia remains visible as a color contrast against the colored dimmed
state of the electrochromic medium. Preferably, and as stated above, the
indicia is created from conducting or at least partially conducting
material (such as can be achieved using conductive carbon fillers).
Alternately, non-conducting non-dark colored indicia can be used on the
second surface of the laminate assembly. Preferably, such non-dark
colored indicia are bright and somewhat reflecting so that they maintain
good color contrast in the dimmed state of the electrochromic mirror.

[0166]Once constructed, any of the electrochromic devices described herein
may have a molded casing placed therearound. This molded casing may be
pre-formed and then placed about the periphery of the assembly or, for
that matter, injection molded therearound using conventional techniques,
including injection molding of thermoplastic materials, such as polyvinyl
chloride [see e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,139,234 (Morgan)], or reaction
injection molding of thermosetting materials, such as polyurethane or
other thermosets [see e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,561,625 (Weaver)]. Thus,
modular automotive glazings incorporating polychromic solid films may be
manufactured.

[0167]Also, optionally and preferably when a thin glass (less than 0.191
cm) front (first) substrate is used in an automotive mirror, the front
substrate 2 that would first be impacted by an impinging object can be
toughened and/or tempered such as is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,115,346
and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/866,764 filed May 30, 1997 to a
"Method and Apparatus for Tempering and Bending Glass", now U.S. Pat. No.
5,938,810, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference
herein. Such toughening/tempering can be achieved by chemical
tempering/strengthening, by air tempering, by contact tempering or by
bladder bending/tempering as disclosed in the '764 application above.

[0168]Polychromic solid films may be used in a variety of automotive
rearview mirror assemblies including those assemblies described in U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 08/799,734 entitled "Vehicle Blind Spot
Detection Display System", invented by Schofield et al. and filed Feb.
12, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,786,772, the disclosure of which is hereby
incorporated herein by reference.

[0169]As disclosed in the U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/799,734 (now
U.S. Pat. No. 5,786,772), a vehicle 10 includes an interior rearview
mirror 12 positioned within passenger compartment 13 of vehicle 10, a
driver's side exterior rearview mirror 14 and a passenger's side exterior
rearview mirror 16 (FIG. 3). Vehicle 10 further includes a blind spot
detection system 18 made up of a blind spot detector 20 and a blind spot
detection display system 22 (FIG. 4). The blind spot detector may be an
infrared blind spot detection system of the type disclosed in U.S.
provisional application Ser. No. 60/013,941, filed Mar. 22, 1996, by
Kenneth Schofield entitled PROXIMITY DETECTION OF OBJECTS IN AND AROUND A
VEHICLE, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference, or
International Patent Application No. WO 9525322 A1, published Sep. 21,
1995, by Patchell et al., entitled VEHICLE-MOUNTED DETECTOR TO SENSE
MOVING VEHICLE IN BLIND SPOT; an optical blind spot detection system of
the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,424,952 (Asayama); a radar-based
blind spot detection system of the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
5,325,096 (Pakett); an ultrasonic blind spot detection system of the type
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,694,295 (Miller et al.); or any other of the
known types of blind spot detection systems. As is common, blind spot
detector 20 may be incorporated in exterior mirrors 14, 16, but may,
alternatively, be independently positioned on the side of the vehicle
being protected by the blind spot detector, as is known in the art. Blind
spot detector 20 may include a separate control 24 or may incorporate the
control function in the same housing with the blind spot detector 20.

[0170]Blind spot detection display system 22 includes a first indicator
assembly 26 positioned on vehicle 10 in the vicinity of driver's side
exterior mirror 14. First indicator assembly 26 includes a first
indicator 28 to produce a visual indication to the driver of the presence
of an object, such as an overtaking vehicle, adjacent the driver's side
of the vehicle. First indicator assembly 26 may include second indicator
30 that the blind spot detector is operational. First indicator assembly
26 may additionally include a third indicator 32 which provides an
indication that an object in the blind spot on the driver's side of the
vehicle is receding from that blind spot. In order to provide additional
visual clues to the driver of the meaning of each of the indicators, the
first indicator 28 is most preferably a red indicator, the second
indicator 30 is a green indicator and third indicator 32 is an amber
indicator. In the illustrated embodiment, first indicator assembly 26 is
positioned on passenger's side exterior mirror 14 and, more specifically,
includes a plurality of LED indicators positioned behind the reflective
element 34 of the exterior mirror. Alternatively, the first indicator
assembly 26 may be positioned on the face of housing 36 for reflective
element 34. Alternatively, first indicator assembly 26 may be positioned
in the pillar (not shown) located on the driver's side of the vehicle.
Although not on the driver's side exterior mirror, such location on the
pillar is adjacent on the driver's side exterior mirror.

[0171]Blind spot detection display system 22 includes a second indicator
assembly 38 positioned on interior mirror assembly 12. Second indicator
assembly 38 includes a first indicator 40 to provide an indication of the
presence of an object adjacent the driver's side of the vehicle. As such,
first indicator 40 is illuminated concurrently with first indicator 28 of
first indicator assembly 26. Although not shown, second indicator
assembly 38 may, optionally, include second and third indicators which
are illuminated concurrently with second and third indicators 30, 32 of
first indicator assembly 26. Preferably, only a single indicator is
provided in order to provide an awareness to the driver of the primary
indication produced by a blind spot detector; namely, the presence of a
vehicle adjacent the associated side of the vehicle. In order to increase
the cognitive association by the driver between the indication and the
event being indicated, second indicator assembly 38 is positioned at a
portion 42 of interior mirror 12 which is toward the driver's side of
vehicle 10.

[0172]In a second embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 5, a blind spot
detection system 18' includes a first blind spot detector 20a detecting
the presence of objects in the blind spot on the driver's side of the
vehicle and a second blind spot detector 20b detecting the presence of
objects in the blind spot on the passenger's side of the vehicle. Blind
spot detection system 18' includes a blind spot detection display system
22' which includes a third indicator assembly 44 positioned on vehicle 10
adjacent passenger's side exterior mirror 16. Blind spot detection
display system 22' additionally includes a fourth indicator assembly 46
on interior mirror assembly 12. Both the third and fourth indicator
assemblies are adapted to producing an indication at least of the
presence of an object adjacent the passenger's side of vehicle 1O. fourth
indicator assembly 46 includes a first indicator 48 which is illuminated
concurrently with a first indicator 28' of third indicator assembly 44.
Third indicator assembly 44 may include a second indicator 30' to
indicate that blind spot detector 20b is operational. In the illustrated
embodiment, blind spot detection system 18' does not include an
indication of the presence of a vehicle in the blind spot that is
receding from the respective side of the vehicle. However, such third
indicator may optionally be provided. First indicator 48 of fourth
indicator assembly 46 is positioned at a portion 50 of exterior mirror 12
which is toward the passenger's side of the vehicle. In this manner,
additional cognitive association is provided for the purpose of
association by the driver between the indication and the event being
indicated.

[0173]In use, first and second indicator assemblies 26, 38 will provide an
indication to the driver of the presence of a vehicle, or other object,
in the driver's blind spot on the driver's side of the vehicle and third
and fourth indicator assemblies 44, 46 will provide an indication to the
driver of the presence of a vehicle, or other object, in the driver's
blind spot on the passenger's side of the vehicle. When the driver
performs a premaneuver evaluation, the driver is immediately apprised of
the presence of a vehicle on the passenger's and/or driver's side of the
vehicle upon the driver's viewing of the interior rearview mirror 12,
which research indicates is the first step taken by most drivers in
initiating the premaneuver evaluation prior to making a lane change or
the like. During subsequent portions of the premaneuver evaluation, the
driver may initially be apprised of the presence of a vehicle in the
driver's side blind spot by first indicator assembly 26 or in the
passenger's side blind spot by the third indicator assembly 44 when
viewing the respective exterior mirror assembly 14, 16. Thus, it is seen
that a natural and intuitive blind spot detection display system is
provided. Blind spot detection display system 22, 22' not only provides
indications to the driver of the presence of a vehicle in a blind spot
during more portions of the premaneuver evaluation, but additionally
provides indications to the driver should dew, frost, or road dirt mask
the indication associated with the exterior rearview mirrors.

[0174]Control 24, 24' may modulate the intensity of the indication
provided by the first, second, third and fourth indicator assemblies
primarily as a function of light levels surrounding vehicle 10. This may
be in response to light levels sensed by light sensors (not shown)
associated with a drive circuit (not shown) for establishing the partial
reflectance level of interior rearview mirrors 12 and/or exterior
rearview mirrors 14, 16 or may be a separate light sensor provided for
the purpose of establishing an input to control 24, 24'.

[0175]In the illustrative embodiment, interior rearview mirror 12 includes
a reflective element 52 and a housing 54 for reflective element 52.
Second and fourth indicator assemblies 38, 46 may be positioned on
reflective element 52 and provide a through-the-cell display such as of
the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,285,060 issued to Mark L. Larson et
al. for a DISPLAY FOR AUTOMATIC REARVIEW MIRROR, the disclosure of which
is hereby incorporated herein by reference. In particular, if the
indicator assembly is behind a variable reflective element, the intensity
of the indicator assembly is adjusted as a function of the reflectance
level of the variable reflective element as disclosed in the '060 patent.

[0176]In an alternative embodiment, a blind spot detection system 18''
includes an exterior mirror 14' having a reflective element 34' and a
housing 36' for the reflective element (FIG. 6). A first indicator
assembly 26' is composed of a sealed module mounted to housing 36' in a
manner which completes the overall slope of the exterior mirror. Such
module is generally constructed according to the principles described in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,497,306 issued to Todd W. Pastrick for an EXTERIOR
VEHICLE SECURITY LIGHT, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by
reference. First indicator assembly 26' includes a module 56 made up of a
case 55 having an opening 58 and an optionally transmitting cover or lens
68 closing the opening in a manner which provides a sealed enclosure. A
lamp assembly 60 is positioned within opening 58 and includes a plurality
of indicators, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 62 physically
supported by and electrically actuated through a printed circuit board
63. A lower assembly 64 provides a plurality of louvers 66 which separate
the LEDs and direct the light generated by the LEDs in the direction of a
driver seated in vehicle 10.

[0177]In operation, the plurality of indicators making up indicator
assembly 26' are cumulatively progressively energized in a manner which
indicates that another vehicle is approaching the detected blind spot of
vehicle 10 and is actually within the blind spot of the vehicle. For
example, a progressively greater number of indicators can be energized as
another vehicle approaches the blind spot of vehicle 10, with the number
of energized indicators increasing as the other vehicle gets closer to
the blind spot of vehicle 10. When the other vehicle is actually within
the blind spot of vehicle 10, all of the indicators would be actuated. As
the other vehicle moves out of the blind spot of vehicle 10, the number
of energized indicators will decrease the further the other vehicle moves
from the blind spot.

[0178]The indicator assemblies may perform multiple display functions such
as providing indication of an additional vehicle function, such as a
compass mirror display function, a temperature display function, a
passenger air bag disable display function, an automatic rain sensor
operation display function, or the like. Such automatic rain sensor
operation display function may include a display function related to both
a windshield-contacting and a non-windshield-contacting rain sensor,
including, for example, where the circuitry to control the rain sensor,
electrochromic dimming of a variable reflectance electrochromic mirror,
and any other mirror-mounted electronic feature are commonly housed in a
rearview mirror assembly and wholly or partially share components on a
common circuit board. The blind spot detection display or the automatic
rain sensor operation display may alternate with the other display
function by a display toggle which may be manually operated, time-shared,
voice-actuated, or under the control of some other sensed function, such
as a change in direction of the vehicle or the like. For example, if the
through-the-cell display described in the Larson et al. '060 patent is
used, it would be desirable to minimize the size of the display because
the display generally takes away from the viewing area of the mirror.
Multiple parameters, such as temperature, vehicle heading, and one or
more icons, can all be indicated without increasing the size of the
display by, for example, having the one or more icons coming on for a
particular interval followed by display of the temperature and vehicle
heading. For example, the temperature and heading displays can be
time-shared by alternatingly displaying temperature and heading with the
cycle of alternation selected from a range of from approximately one (1)
second to approximately 25 seconds. Alternatively, the driver can be
provided with an input reflective element, such as a switch, to allow the
driver to choose which parameter to display. In yet an additional
alternative, one of the parameters can be normally displayed with the
driver being provided with an override function to allow display of the
other parameter. Other variations will be apparent to those skilled in
the art.

[0179]Also, they may be used in association with rain sensor interior
mirror assemblies wherein a rain sensor functionality, as is commonly
known in the automotive art, is provided in association with an interior
rearview mirror assembly. Such association includes utilizing an element
of the rearview mirror assembly (such as a plastic housing attached, for
example, to the mirror channel mount that conventionally attaches the
mirror assembly to a windshield button slug) to cover a
windshield-contacting rain sensor (such as is described in U.S. Pat. No.
4,973,844 titled "Vehicular Moisture Sensor and Mounting Apparatus
Therefor", invented by O'Farrell et al. and issued Nov. 27, 1990, the
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference), or it
may include a non-windshield-contacting rain sensor (such as is described
in PCT International Application. PCT/US94/05093 entitled "Multi-Function
Light Sensor for Vehicle" invented by Dennis J. Hegyl, published as WO
94/27262 on Nov. 24, 1994, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated
by reference herein). The rearview mirror assembly can include a display
function (or multiple display functions).

[0180]These displays may perform a single display function or multiple
display functions such as providing indication of an additional vehicle
function, such as a compass mirror display function, a temperature
display function, status of inflation of tires display function, a
passenger air bag disable display function, an automatic rain sensor
operation display function, telephone dial information display function,
highway status information display function, blind spot indicator display
function, or the like. Such display may be an alpha-numerical display or
a multi-pixel display, and maybe fixed or scrolling. Such an automatic
rain sensor operation display function may include a display function
related to both a windshield-contacting and a non-windshield-contacting
rain sensor, including, for example, where the circuitry to control the
rain sensor, electrochromic dimming of a variable reflectance
electrochromic mirror, and any other mirror-mounted electronic feature
are commonly housed in or on a rearview mirror assembly and wholly or
partially share components on a common circuit board. The blind spot
detection display or the automatic rain sensor operation display may
alternate with other display functions by a display toggle which may be
manually operated, time-shared, voice-actuated, or under the control of
some other sensed function, such as a change in direction of the vehicle
or the like. Should a rain sensor control be associated with,
incorporated in, or coupled to the interior rearview mirror assembly, the
rain sensor circuitry, in addition to, providing automatic or
semi-automatic control over operation of the windshield wipers (on the
front and/or rear windshield of the vehicle), can control the defogger
function to defog condensed vapor on an inner cabin surface of a vehicle
glazing (such as the inside surface of the front windshield, such as by
operating a blower fan, heater function, air conditioning function, or
their like), or the rain sensor control can close a sunroof or any other
movable glazing should rain conditions be detected. As stated above, it
may be advantageous for the rain sensor control (or any other feature
such as a head-lamp controller, a remote keyless entry receiver, a
cellular phone including its microphone, a vehicle status indicator and
the like) to share components and circuitry with the electrochromic
mirror function control circuitry and electrochromic mirror assembly
itself. Also, a convenient way to mount a non-windshield-contacting rain
sensor such as described by Hegyl is by attachment, such as by snap-on
attachment, as a module to the mirror channel mount such as is described
in U.S. Pat. No. 5,576,678 entitled "Mirror Support Bracket," invented by
R. Hook et al. and issued Nov. 19, 1996, the disclosure of which is
hereby incorporated by reference herein. The mirror mount and/or
windshield button may optionally be specially adapted to accommodate a
non-windshield mounting rain sensor module. Such mounting as a module is
readily serviceable and attachable to a wide variety of interior mirror
assemblies (both electrochromic and non-electrochromic such as prismatic,
manually adjusted mirror assemblies), and can help ensure appropriate
alignment of the non-windshield-mounted variety of rain sensor to the
vehicle windshield insofar that the module attached to the mirror mount
remains fixed whereas the mirror itself (which typically attaches to the
mirror channel mount via a single or double ball joint) is movable so
that the driver can adjust its field of view. Also, should smoke from
cigarettes and the like be a potential source of interference to the
operation of the non-windshield-contacting rain sensor, then a
mirror-attached housing can be used to shroud the rain sensor unit and
shield it from smoke (and other debris). Optionally, such ability to
detect presence of cigarette smoke can be used to enforce a non-smoking
ban in vehicles, such as is commonly requested by rental car fleet
operators. Also, when a rain sensor (contacting or non-contacting) is
used to activate the wiper on the rear window (rear backlight) of the
vehicle, the sensor can be conveniently packaged and mounted with the
CHMSL (center high mounted stop light) stop light assembly commonly
mounted on the rear window glass or close to it. Mounting of the rain
sensor with the CHMSL stop light can be aesthetically appealing and allow
sharing of components/wiring/circuitry.

[0181]The electrochromic solid films can be used with interior rearview
mirrors equipped with a variety of features such as a control to
open/close a gasoline fill cap or a rear trunk or a front bonnet, a
high/low (or daylight running beam/low) headlamp controller,
altitude/incline display, a hands-free phone attachment, a video camera
for internal cabin surveillance and/or video telephone function, a
vehicle mounted remote transaction interface system (such as would allow
payment for gas purchases, automatic bank teller interactions, etc.) seat
occupancy detection, map reading lights (including map reading lights
comprising an incandescent lamp, an array of light emitting diodes or a
solid state diode laser/array of solid state diode lasers),
compass/temperature display, fuel level and other vehicle status display,
a train warning system display, a trip computer, an intrusion detector
and the like. Again, such features can share components and circuitry
with the electrochromic mirror circuitry and assembly so that provision
of these extra features is economical.

[0182]Placement of a video camera either at, within, or on the interior
rearview mirror assembly (including within or on a module attached to a
mirror structure such as the mount that attaches to the windshield
button) has numerous advantages. For example, the mirror is centrally and
high mounted and so is in a location that has an excellent field of view
of the driver, and of the interior cabin in general. Also, it is a
defined distance from the driver and so focus of the camera is
facilitated. Also, if placed on the movable portion of the mirror
assembly, the normal alignment of the mirror reflector relative to the
driver's field of vision rearward via the mirror can be used to readily
align the video camera to view the head of the driver. Since many
interior rearview mirrors are electrically serviced, placement of a
camera at within, or on the rearview mirror assembly can be conveniently
and economically realized, with common sharing of components and
circuitry by, for example, a compass direction function (which may
include a flux gate sensor, a magneto-resistive sensor, a
magneto-inductive sensor, or a magneto-capacitive sensor), an external
temperature display function and the electrochromic dimming function.
Although the driver is likely the principal target and beneficiary of the
video camera, the video camera field of view can be mechanically or
electrically (i.e., via a joystick) adjusted to view Other
portions/occupants of the vehicle cabin interior. In this regard, the
joystick controller that adjusts the position of the reflector on the
outside rearview mirrors can, optionally, be used to adjust the video
camera field of view as well. The video camera can be a CCD camera or a
CMOS based video microchip such as is described in PCT Application No.
94/01954 filed Feb. 25, 1994, the disclosure of which is hereby
incorporated by reference herein. For operation at night, the internal
cabin of the vehicle may optionally be illuminated with non-visible
radiation, such as near-infrared radiation, and the video camera can be
responsive to said near-infrared radiation so that a video telephone call
can be conducted even when the interior cabin is dark to visible light,
such as at night. Also, the video camera mounted at, within or on the
inner rearview mirror assembly (such as within the mirror housing or in a
pod attached to the mirror mount) can be utilized to capture an image of
the face of a potential driver and then, using appropriate image
recognition software, decide whether the driver is authorized to operate
the vehicle and, only then, enable the ignition system to allow the motor
of the vehicle be started. Use of such a mirror-mounted video camera (or
a digital still camera) enhances vehicle security and reduces theft.
Further, the video camera can monitor the driver while he/she is driving
and, by detection of head droop, eye closure, eye pupil change, or the
like, determine whether the driver is becoming drowsy/falling asleep, and
then activate a warning to the driver to stay alert/wake up. It is
beneficial to use a microprocessor to control multiple functions within
the interior mirror assembly and/or within other areas of the vehicle
(such as the header console area), and such as is described in Irish
Patent Application No. 970014 entitled "A Vehicle Rearview Mirror and A
Vehicle Control System Incorporating Such Mirror," application date Jan.
9, 1997, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference
herein. Such microprocessor can, for example, control the electrochromic
dimming function, a compass direction display and an external temperature
display. For example, a user actuatable switch can be provided that at
one push turns on a compass/temperature display, on second push changes
the temperature display to metric units (i.e., to degrees Celsius), on
third push changes to Imperial units (i.e., degrees Fahrenheit) and on
fourth push turns off the compass/temperature display, with the
microprocessor controlling the logic of the display. Alternately, a
single switch actuation turns on the display in Imperial units, the
second actuation changes it to metric units, and third actuation turns
the display off. Further, the displays and functions described herein can
find utility also on outside rearview mirrors. For example, a transducer
that receives and/or transmits information to a component of an
intelligent highway system (such as is known in the automotive art) can
be incorporated into an interior and/or outside rearview mirror assembly.
Thus, for example, a transmitter/receiver for automatic toll booth
function could be mounted at/within/on an outside sideview mirror
assembly. A digital display of the toll booth transaction can be
displayed by a display incorporated in the interior rearview mirror
assembly. Optionally, a micro printer incorporated within the rearview
mirror can print a receipt of the transaction. Similarly, for safety and
security on the highways, GPS information, state of traffic information,
weather information, telephone number information, and the like may be
displayed and transmitted/received via transducers located at, within, or
on an interior rearview mirror assembly and/or an outside sideview mirror
assembly. Also, the interior rearview mirror assembly can include a link
to the Worldwide Web via the INTERNET. Such as via a modem/cellular phone
mounted within the vehicle, and preferably, mounted at, within or on the
interior rearview mirror assembly. Thus, the driver can interact with
other road users, can receive/transmit messages including E-mail, can
receive weather and status of highway traffic/conditions, and the like,
via a mirror located interface to the INTERNET.

[0183]Further, a trainable garage door opener such as a universal garage
door opener such as is available from Prince Corporation, Holland,
Michigan under the tradename HOMELINK®, or the transmitter for a
universal home access system that replaces the switch in a household
garage that opens/closes the garage door with a smart switch that is
programmable to a household specific code that is of the rolling code
type, such as is available from TRW Automotive, Farmington Hills, Mich.
under the tradename KWIKLINK® may be mounted at, within, or on the
interior mirror (or, if desired, the outside sideview mirror). Switches
to operate such devices (typically up to three separate push type
switches, each for a different garage door/security gate/household door)
can be mounted on the mirror assembly, preferably user actuatable from
the front face of the mirror housing. Preferably, the universal garage
door opener HOMELINK® unit or the universal home access KWIKLINK®
unit is mounted at, within or on the interior rearview mirror assembly.
Optionally, such a unit could be mounted at, within or on an outside
sideview mirror assembly.

[0184]The KWIKLINK® Universal Home Access System (which operates on a
rolling code, such as is commonly known in the home/vehicle security art)
comprises a vehicle mounted transmitter and a receiver located in the
garage. The KWIKLINK® system is a low-current device that can be,
optionally, operated off a battery source, such as a long life lithium
battery. It is also compact and lightweight as executed on a single-or
double-sided printed circuit board. The KWIKLINK® printed circuit
board can be mounted within the mirror housing (optionally adhered to a
shock absorber comprising a double-sticky tape anti-scatter layer on the
rear of the reflector element (prismatic or electrochromic) such as is
described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,572,354 entitled "Rear Mirror Assembly",
invented by J. Desmond et al. and issued Nov. 5, 1996, the disclosure of
which is hereby incorporated by reference herein or may be accommodated
within a detachable module, such as the pod described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,576,678 entitled "Mirror Support Bracket", invented by R. Hook et al.
and issued Nov. 19, 1996, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated
by reference herein, and with the detachable module attached to the
mirror mount or to the mirror button. Mounting the KWIKLINK® unit in a
detachable module has advantages, particularly for aftermarket supply
where a battery operated KWIKLINK® unit can be supplied within a pod
housing (with the necessary user actuatable button or buttons mounted on
the pod and with the battery being readily serviceable either by access
through a trap door and/or by detaching the pad from the mirror mount).
By supplying a battery-operated, stand-alone, snap-on, detachable
KWIKLINK® mirror mount pod, the KWIKLINK® home access system can be
readily and economically provided to a broad range of mirrors (including
non-electrical mirrors such as base prismatic mirrors, and electrical
mirrors such as lighted prismatic mirrors and electo-optic mirrors, such
as electrochromic mirrors). Further, a solar panel can be installed on
the pod housing to recharge the battery.

[0185]Also, the pod module assembly may have a windshield button mount
attached thereto or incorporated therein and have, in addition, a
structure that replicates the windshield button standard on most vehicles
manufactured in the United States. Thus, when a consumer purchases such
an aftermarket product, the consumer simply removes the existing interior
rearview mirror assembly from the windshield button it is attached to in
the vehicle. Then, the consumer attaches the pod module windshield button
mount to the windshield button attached to the windshield (this can be
achieved either by sliding on and securing with a screwdriver, or by
snap-on in a manner conventional in the mirror mounting art). Finally,
the consumer now attaches the rearview mirror assembly to the windshield
button replication structure that is part of the aftermarket pod module.
Since the windshield button shape is largely an industry standard (but
the interior rearview mirror mount that attaches thereto is typically not
standard), by using this "button on a button" pod module design, an
aftermarket product (such as a pod module incorporating a home access
transmitter, a universal garage door opener, a security monitor such as a
pyroelectric intrusion detector (such as disclosed in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 08/720,237 filed Sep. 26, 1996, the disclosure of
which is hereby incorporated by reference herein), a remote keyless entry
receiver, a compass, a temperature and/or clock function and the like)
may be readily installed by the vehicle owner, and the existing rearview
minor assembly can be readily remounted in the vehicle.

[0186]Also, a cellular phone can be incorporated into the interior mirror
assembly with its antenna, optionally, incorporated into the outside
sideview mirror assembly or into the inside rearview mirror assembly.
Such mounting within the mirror assemblies has several advantages
including that of largely hiding the cellular phone and antenna from
ready view by a potential thief. Further, a seat occupancy detector
coupled to an air bag deployment/disable monitor can be located at,
within or on the interior rearview mirror assembly. The seat occupancy
detector can be a video microchip or CD camera seat occupancy detector,
an ultrasonic detector or a pyroelectric detector, or their combination.
Moreover, where more than one rearview mirror is being controlled or
operated; or when several vehicle accessories are linked to, for example,
an electrochromic interior or outside mirror, interconnections can be
multiplexed, as is commonly known in the automotive art. Moreover, where
it is desired to display external outdoor temperature within the interior
cabin of the vehicle, a temperature sensor (such as a thermocouple or
thermistor) can be mounted at, within or on an outside sideview mirror
assembly (for example, it can protrude into the slipstream below the
lower portion of the sideview minor housing in a manner that is
aesthetically and styling acceptable to the automakers and to the
consumer) and with the temperature sensor output connected, directly or
by multiplexing to a display (such as a vacuum fluorescent display)
located in the interior cabin of the vehicle.

[0187]Preferably, the external temperature display is located at, within
or on the interior rearview mirror assembly, optionally in combination
with another display function such as a compass display (see U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 08/799,734, entitled "Vehicle Blind Spot Detection
System" invented by K. Schofield et al., and filed Feb. 12, 1997, now
U.S. Pat. No. 5,786,772), or as a stand-alone pod attached as a module to
a mirror support supper member (see U.S. Pat. No. 5,576,687). Most
preferably, the interior and outside mirror assemblies are supplied by
the same supplier, using just-in-time sequencing methods, such as is
commonly known in the automotive supply art and as is commonly used such
as for supply of seats to vehicles. Just-in-time and/or sequencing
techniques can be used to supply a specific option (for example, the
option of configuring an external temperature display with a base
prismatic interior mirror, or with a base electrochromic interior mirror,
or with a compass prismatic interior mirror, or with a compass
electrochromic interior mirror) for an individual vehicle as it passes
down the vehicle assembly line. Thus, the automaker can offer a wide
array of options to a consumer from an option menu. Should a specific
customer select an external temperature display for a particular vehicle
due to be manufactured by an automaker at a particular location on a
specific day/hour, then the mirror system supplier sends to the vehicle
assembly plant, in-sequence and/or just-in-time, a set of an interior
rearview mirror assembly and at least one outside sideview mirror
assembly for that particular vehicle being produced that day on the
assembly line, and with the outside sideview mirror equipped with an
external temperature sensor and with the interior rearview mirror
assembly equipped with an external temperature display. Such
just-in-time, in-sequence supply (which can be used for the incorporation
of the various added features recited supra and below) is facilitated
when the vehicle utilizes a car area network such as is described, in
Irish Patent Application No. 970014 entitled "A Vehicle Rearview Mirror
and A Vehicle Control System Incorporating Such Mirror", application date
Jan. 9, 1997, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference
herein, or when multiplexing is used, such as is disclosed in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 08/679,681 entitled "Vehicles Mirror Digital Network
and Dynamically Interactive Mirror System", invented by O'Farrell et al.,
and filed Jul. 11, 1996, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,575, the disclosure of
which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Also, given that an
interior electrochromic mirror can optionally be equipped with a myriad
of features (such as map lights, reverse inhibit line, headlamp
activation, external temperature display, remote keyless entry control,
and the like), it is useful to equip such assemblies with a standard
connector (for example, a 10-pin, parallel connector) so that a common
standard wiring harness can be provided across an automaker's entire
product range. Naturally, multiplexing within the vehicle can help
alleviate the need for more pins on such a connector, or allow a given
pin or set of pins control more than one function.

[0188]Polychromic solid films can be used in added feature interior
rearview mirror assemblies including those that include a loudspeaker
(such as for a vehicle audio system, radio or the like, or for a cellular
phone including a video cellular phone). Such loudspeaker may be a high
frequency speaker that is mounted at, within, or on the interior rearview
mirror assembly (such as within the mirror housing or attached as a
module-type pod to the mirror mount such as is described supra) and with
its audio output, preferably, directed towards the front windshield of
the vehicle so that the windshield itself at least partially reflects the
audio output of the speaker (that preferably is a tweeter speaker, more
preferably is a compact (such as about 1''×1''×1'' in
dimensions or smaller), and most preferably utilizes a neodynium magnet
core) back into the interior cabin of the vehicle. The interior rearview
mirror assembly can also include a microphone and a digital (or a
conventional magnetic tape) recorder that can be used by vehicle
occupants to record messages and the like. A display can be provided that
receives paging information from a pager incorporated in the interior
rearview mirror assembly and that displays messages to the driver
(preferably via a scrolling display) or to other occupants. The interior
rearview mirror assembly can include a digital storage of information
such as phone numbers, message reminders, calendar information and the
like, that can automatically, or on demand, display information to the
driver.

[0189]Each of the documents cited in the present teaching is herein
incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each document had
individually been incorporated by reference.

[0190]In view of the above description of the instant invention, it is
evident that a wide range of practical opportunities is provided by the
teaching herein. The following examples illustrate the benefits and
utility of the present invention and are provided only for purposes of
illustration, and are not to be construed so as to limit in any way the
teaching herein.

EXAMPLES

[0191]In each of these examples, we selected random assemblies, fractured
the substrates of the assemblies and scraped the polychromic solid film
that had formed during the transformation process within the assembly
from the broken substrate.

[0192]To demonstrate the safety performance of the electrochromic devices
manufactured according to the these examples, we simulated the impact of
an accident by impacting the glass substrates of randomly selected
devices with a solid object so as to shatter the glass substrates of
those devices. We observed that in each instance the shattered glass was
held in place by the polychromic solid film such that glass shards from
the broken substrates did not separate and scatter from the device.

[0193]In general, we observed good cycle stability, heat stability,
performance under prolonged coloration and ultraviolet stability of the
electrochromic devices manufactured with the polychromic solid films of
the present invention.

[0194]To demonstrate the cycle stability, ultraviolet stability and
thermal stability of some of the electrochromic devices manufactured with
the polychromic solid films of the present invention, we subjected
electrochromic mirrors to (1) 15 seconds color--15 seconds bleach cycles
at both room temperature and about 50° C.; (2) ultraviolet
stability tests by exposing the electrochromic mirrors to at least about
900 KJ/m2 using a Xenon Weatherometer as per SAE J1960 and (3)
thermal stability tests at about 85° C.

[0195]In these mirrors, we observed no change of electrochromic
performance or degrading of the electrochromic devices after more than
about 100,000 cycles (15 seconds color--15 seconds bleach) at room
temperature and more than about 85,000 cycles (15 seconds color--15
seconds bleach) at about 50° C., and after exposure to about 900
KJ/m2 of ultraviolet radiation and to about 85° C. for about
360 hours indicating excellent cycle stability and weatherability.

Example 1

[0196]In this example, we chose a RMPT-HVBF4 electrochromic pair, in
conjunction with a commercially available ultraviolet curable
formulation, to illustrate the beneficial properties and characteristics
of the polychromic solid films and electrochromic interior automotive
mirrors manufactured therewith.

[0197]A. Synthesis and Isolation of RMPT

[0198]We synthesized 2-methyl-phenothiazine-3-one according to the
procedure described in European Patent Publication EP 0 115 394 (Merck
Frosst Canada). To reduce MPT to RMPT, we followed the redox procedure
described in commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No.
07/935,784 (filed Aug. 27, 1992), now U.S. Pat. No. 5,500,760.

[0199]B. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0200]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition according to the
present invention comprising about 3,7% HVBF4 (as a cathodic
compound), about 1.6% RMPT (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously
dispersed in a combination of about 47.4% propylene carbonate (as the
plasticizer) and, as a monomer component, about 52.6% "IMPRUV" (an
ultraviolet curable formulation). We thoroughly mixed this electrochromic
monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the
components was achieved.

[0201]C. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0202]We assembled interior automotive mirrors from HW-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with both the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear
glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The
dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×37
μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of
about 37 μm also applied.

[0203]We placed into the mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 1(B), supra, by the vacuum backfilling technique
[as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0204]D. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0205]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 1(B), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 1(C),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B. While the belt advanced initially at a rate of
about twenty-five feet per minute, we exposed the assemblies to
ultraviolet radiation generated by the D fusion lamp of the F-300 B. We
passed the assemblies under the fusion lamp light eight times at that
rate, pausing momentarily between passes to allow the assemblies to cool,
then eight times at a rate of about fifteen feet per minute again pausing
momentarily between passes to allow the assemblies to cool and finally
three times at a rate of about ten feet per minute with the
aforementioned pausing between passes.

[0206]E. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0207]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and thereafter observed this mirror to color
rapidly and uniformly to a bluish purple color.

[0208]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 71% reflectance which decreased to a low
reflectance of about 10.8% when about 1.3 volts was applied thereto. The
response time for the reflectance to change from about 70% to about 20%
when that potential was applied thereto was about 3.7 seconds. We made
this determination by following the SAE J964a standard procedure of the
Society of Automotive Engineers, with a reflectometer--set in reflectance
mode--equipped with a light source (known in the art as Illuminant A) and
a photopic detector assembly interfaced with a data acquisition system.

[0209]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 20% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 7.1 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform, and
the bleached appearance to be silvery.

Example 2

[0210]In this example, we chose a RMPT-HVBF4 electrochromic pair, in
conjunction with a combination of commercially available ultraviolet
curable formulations, to illustrate the beneficial properties and
characteristics of the polychromic solid film and the electrochromic
interior automotive mirrors manufactured therewith by using the sandwich
lamination technique.

[0211]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0212]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 2.6%; HVBF4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.2%; RMPT
(as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a combination of
about 4% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer) and, in combination as a
monomer component, about 50% "QUICK CURE" B-565 (an acrylated
urethane/ultraviolet curable formulation) and about 10% "ENVIBAR" UV 1244
(a cycloalkyl epoxide/ultraviolet curable formulation). We thoroughly
mixed this electrochromic monomer composition to ensure that a
homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0213]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0214]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors by
dispensing a portion of the electrochromic Monomer composition of Example
2(A), supra, onto the conductive surface of a tin oxide-coated glass
substrate (the other surface of the substrate being silver-coated so as
to form a mirror) onto which we also placed 37 μm glass beads, and
then positioned thereover the conductive surface of a clear, tin
oxide-coated glass substrate. These glass substrates, commercially
available under the trade name "TEC-Glass" products as "TEC-20" from
Libby-Owens-Ford Co., Toledo, Ohio, having dimensions of about
3''×6'', were assembled to form an interpane distance between the
glass substrates of about 37 μm. In this way, the electrochromic
monomer composition was located between the conductive surface of the two
glass substrates of the mirror assemblies.

[0215]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0216]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 9(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 9(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B. While the belt advanced initially at a rate of
about twenty feet per minute, we exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation generated by the D fusion lamp of the F-300 B. We passed the
assemblies under the fusion lamp light twelve times at that rate, pausing
between every third or fourth pass to allow the assemblies to cool.

[0217]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirrors

[0218]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the minors, and
thereafter observed that the minor colored rapidly and uniformly to a
bluish purple color.

[0219]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 57% reflectance which decreased to a low
reflectance of about 9.3%. The response time for the reflectance to
change from about 55% to about 20% was about 10 seconds when a potential
of about 1.3 volts was applied thereto. We made this determination by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

[0220]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 50% reflectance in a response time of about 56 seconds under
about zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform, and
the bleached appearance to be silvery.

Example 3

[0221]In this example, we compared the beneficial properties and
characteristics of a polychromic solid film prepared using ferrocene as
an anodic electrochromic compound, and manufactured within an exterior
automotive mirror [Example 3(B)(1) and (D)(1), infra] and interior
automotive mirrors [Example 3(B)(2) and (D)(2), infra]. We also installed
an interior automotive mirror as a rearview mirror in an automobile to
observe its performance under conditions attendant with actual automotive
use.

[0222]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0223]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 4.4%-EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 2%
ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a
combination comprising, in combination as the plasticizer component,
about 46.6%; propylene carbonate and about 8.8% cyanoethyl sucrose and,
in combination as a monomer component, about 17.7%, caprolactone acrylate
and about 13.3% polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400). We also added about
0.9% benzoin i-butyl ether (as a photoinitiator) and about 4.4% "UVINUL"
N 35 (as an ultraviolet stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this
electrochromic monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous
dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0224]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0225]1. Exterior Automotive Mirror

[0226]We assembled exterior automotive mirrors from HW-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with both the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear
glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The
dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about 3.5''×5.5''×74
μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of
about 74 μm also applied.

[0227]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 3(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0228]2. Interior Automotive Mirror

[0229]We assembled interior automotive mirrors from HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with both the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear
glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The
dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×44
μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of
about 44 μm also applied.

[0230]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 3(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0231]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0232]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 3(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within each of the respective mirror assemblies of
Example 3(8)(1) and (2), supra, we placed the assemblies onto the
conveyor belt of a Fusion UV Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the
assemblies to ultraviolet radiation in the same manner as described in
Example 1(D), supra.

[0233]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0234]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors of Example 3(B), supra, and to two of the
electrochromic mirrors of Example 3(C1, supra. Our observations follow.

[0235]1. Exterior Automotive Mirror

[0236]We observed that the electrochromic mirror colored rapidly and
uniformly to a blue color with a greenish hue.

[0237]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the exterior mirror, decreased from about 80.5% to about 5.7%,
with a change in the reflectance of about 70% to about 20% in a response
time of about 5.0 seconds when a potential of about 1.3 volts was applied
thereto. We made this determination by the reflectometer described in
Example 1, supra.,

[0238]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 9.2 seconds, under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform, and
the bleached appearance to be silvery.

[0239]2. Interior Automotive Mirror

[0240]We observed that each of a first and second electrochromic mirror
colored rapidly and uniformly to a blue color with a greenish hue.

[0241]In addition, we observed that for the first mirror the high
reflectance at the center portion of the interior mirror decreased from
about 80.2% to about 6.3%, with a change in the reflectance of about 70%
to about 20% in a response time of about 3.1 seconds when a potential of
about 1.3 volts was applied thereto. The second mirror exhibited
comparable results, with the reflectance decreasing from about 78.4% to
about 7.5% in about 2.7 seconds. We made these determinations by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

[0242]We also observed that the first mirror bleached from about 10%
reflectance to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 3.9
seconds under about a zero applied potential, and the second mirror
bleached to the same extent in about 3.6 seconds. We noted the bleaching
to be uniform, and the bleached appearance to be silvery.

[0243]We have successfully installed and operated such an electrochromic
mirror in an automobile as a rearview mirror and achieved excellent
results.

Example 4

[0244]In this example, we chose t-butyl ferrocene as the anodic
electrochromic compound together with a monomer component containing the
combination of a monomer and a commercially available ultraviolet curable
formulation to illustrate the beneficial properties, and characteristics
of the polychromic solid films made therefrom and the electrochromic
interior automotive mirrors manufactured therewith.

[0245]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0246]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 3.9% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 2.3%
t-butyl ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed
in a combination comprising about 61.7% propylene carbonate (as a
plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component, about 10.7%
caprolactone acrylate and about 10.6% "SARBOX" acrylate resin (SB 500)
(an ultraviolet curable formulation). We also added about 1.3% "IRGACURE"
184 (as a photoinitiator) and about 4.4% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an ultraviolet
stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0247]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0248]We assembled interior automotive mirrors from HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with both the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear
glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The
dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×53
μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of
about 53 μm also applied.

[0249]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 4(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0250]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0251]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 4(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 4(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0252]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0253]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors of Example 4(B) and (C), supra, and observed this
mirror to color rapidly and uniformly to a blue color with a greenish
hue.

[0254]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 79.3% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 9.8% when about 1.3 volts was applied thereto.
The response time for the reflectance to change from, about 70% to about
20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.3 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0255]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 3.0 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Examples 5 through 8

[0256]In Examples 5 through 8, we compared the beneficial properties and
characteristics of polychromic solid films prepared from ferrocene, and
three alkyl derivatives thereof, as the anodic electrochromic compound
and manufactured within interior automotive mirrors.

Example 5

[0257]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0258]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition according to the
present invention comprising about 3.5% EVClO4 (as a cathodic
compound), about 2.1% dimethyl ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 51.5% propylene
carbonate (as a plasticizer) and about 34.3% "QUICK CURE" B-565 (as a
monomer component). We also added about 8.6% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an
ultraviolet stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic
monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the
components was achieved.

[0259]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0260]We assembled interior automotive mirrors from HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with both the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear
glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The
dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×53
μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of
about 53 μm also applied.

[0261]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 5(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0262]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0263]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 5(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 5(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 2(C), supra.

[0264]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0265]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and thereafter observed this mirror to color
rapidly and uniformly to a blue color with a greenish hue.

[0266]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 71.9% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.5% when about 1.3 volts was applied thereto.
The response time for the reflectance to change from about 70% to about
20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.4 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0267]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 4.2 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

[0268]Example 6

[0269]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0270]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition according to the
present invention comprising about 3.5% EVClO4 (as a cathodic
compound), about 2.3% n-butyl ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 51.3% propylene
carbonate (as a plasticizer) and about 34.3% "QUICK CURE" B-565 (as a
monomer component). We also added about 8.6% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an
ultraviolet stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic
monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the
components was achieved.

[0271]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0272]We assembled interior automotive mirrors from HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with both the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear
glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The
dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×53
μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of
about 53 μm, also applied.

[0273]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 6(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0274]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0275]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 6(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 6(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 2(C), supra.

[0276]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0277]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and thereafter observed this mirror to color
rapidly and uniformly to a blue color with a greenish hue.

[0278]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 73.8% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.8% when about 1.3 volts was applied thereto.
The response time for the reflectance to change from about 70% to about
20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.5 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0279]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 4.3 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 7

[0280]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0281]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition according to the
present invention comprising about 3.5% EVClO4 (as a cathodic
compound), about 2.3% t-butyl ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 51.3% propylene
carbonate (as a plasticizer) and about 34.3% "QUICK CURE" B-565. (as a
monomer component). We also added about 8.6% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an
ultraviolet stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic
monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion o the
components was achieved.

[0282]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0283]We assembled interior automotive mirrors from HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass
having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The dimensions of
the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×53 μm, with a
weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 53 μm
also applied.

[0284]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 7(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad supra].

[0285]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0286]Once the electrochromic monomer composition as of Example 7(A),
supra, was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example
7(B), supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion
UV Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 2(C), supra.

[0287]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0288]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and thereafter observed this mirror to color
rapidly and uniformly to a blue color with greenish hue.

[0289]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 73.1% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.8% when about 1.3 volts was applied, thereto.
The response time for the reflectance to change from about 70% to about
20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.5 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0290]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 4.3 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 8

[0291]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0292]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition according to the
present invention comprising about 3.5% EVClO4 (as a cathodic
compound), about 1.8% ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 51.8% propylene
carbonate (as a plasticizer) and about 34.3% "QUICK CURE" B-565 (as a
monomer component). We also added about 8.6% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an
ultraviolet stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic
monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the
components was achieved.

[0293]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0294]We assembled interior automotive mirrors from HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass
having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The dimensions of
the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×53 μm, with a
weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 53 μm
also applied.

[0295]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 8(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0296]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0297]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 8(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 8(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 2(C), supra.

[0298]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0299]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and thereafter observed this mirror to color
rapidly and uniformly to a blue color with a greenish hue.

[0300]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 72.7% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.9% when about 1.3 volts was applied thereto.
The response time for the reflectance to change from about 70% to about
20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.7 seconds. We
made this determination, by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0301]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 4.8 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 9

[0302]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0303]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 3.9% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.0%
t-butyl ferrocene and about 1.0% DMPA (in combination as the anodic
compound), homogeneously dispersed in a combination comprising about 45%
propylene carbonate, about 8.9% cyanoethyl sucrose and about 8.9%
3-hydroxypropionitrile (in combination as a plasticizer component) and,
in combination as a monomer component, about 17.7% caprolactone acrylate,
about 11.5% polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400) and about 1.8%
1,6-hexanediol diacrylate. We also added about 0.9% "IRGACURE" 184 (as a
photoinitiator) and about 4.4% "UVINUL N 35" (as an ultraviolet
stabilizing agent), and we thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0304]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0305]We assembled interior automotive mirrors from HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass
having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms: per square. The dimensions of
the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×44 μm, with a
weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 44 μm
also applied.

[0306]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition, of Example 9(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0307]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0308]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 9(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 9(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0309]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0310]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and thereafter observed that the mirror colored
rapidly and uniformly to a bluish green color.

[0311]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 78.2%; decreased to a low reflectance of
about 8.2%, with a change in the reflectance of about 70%s to about 20%
in a response time of about 1.9 seconds when a potential of about 1.3
volts was applied thereto. We made this determination by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

[0312]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 5.4 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 10

[0313]In this example, like Example 2, we chose to illustrate the sandwich
lamination technique of manufacturing electrochromic devices to
demonstrate its efficiency in the context of the present invention.

[0314]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0315]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 3.0% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.9%
t-butyl ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed
in a combination of about 31.7% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer),
and, in combination as a monomer component, about 31.7% "QUICK CURE"
B-565 and about 31.7% Urethane Acrylate (Soft) (CN 953). We thoroughly
mixed this electrochromic monomer composition to ensure that a homogenous
dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0316]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0317]We assembled rectangular mirrors by dispensing a portion of the
electrochromic monomer composition of Example 10(A), supra, onto the
conductive surface of a silvered "TEC-20" glass substrate onto which we
also placed 150 μm glass beads, and then positioned thereover the
conductive surface of a clear "TEC-20" glass substrate. We assembled
these glass substrates, having dimensions of about 5.5''×7'', under
moderate pressure to form an interpane distance between the glass
substrates of about 150 μm. In this way, the electrochromic monomer
composition was located between the conductive surfaces of the two glass
substrates of the mirror assemblies.

[0318]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0319]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 10(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 10(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 2(C), supra.

[0320]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirrors

[0321]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirror, and thereafter observed that the mirror colored
rapidly and uniformly to a greenish blue color.

[0322]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 66.7% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 5.8%. The response time for the reflectance to
change from about 60% to about 5.9% was about 30 seconds when a potential
of about 1.3 volts was applied thereto. We made this determination by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

[0323]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 5.9%
reflectance to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 180
seconds under about zero applied potential.

Example 11

[0324]In this example, we chose to illustrate the beneficial properties
and characteristics of the polychromic solid films manufactured within
electrochromic glazings, that may be used as small area transmissive
devices, such as optical filters and the like.

[0325]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0326]We prepared am electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 2.5% HVBF4 (as a cathodic compound), about
1.1%--MPT--having been previously reduced by contacting with zinc [see
Varaprasad IV and commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No.
07/935,784, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,500,760] (as an anodic compound), both
homogeneously dispersed in a combination comprising, in combination as a
plasticizer, about 47.7% propylene carbonate and about 1% acetic acid,
and about 47.7% "QUICK CURE" B-565 (as a monomer component). We
thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer composition to ensure that a
homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0327]B. Glazing Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0328]We assembled electrochromic glazings from HW-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with the glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms
per square. The dimensions of the glazing assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×53 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin
coupled with spacers of about 53 μm also applied.

[0329]We placed into these glazing assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 11(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0330]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Glazing to Polychromic Solid Film

[0331]Once the electrochromic composition of Example 11(A), supra, was
uniformly applied within the glazing assemblies of Example 11(B), supra,
we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV Curing
System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet radiation in
the same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0332]D. Use of Electrochromic Glazing

[0333]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to the electrochromic
glazings of Example 11(B) and (C), supra. We observed that the
electrochromic glazings colored rapidly and uniformly to a bluish purple
color.

[0334]In addition, we observed that the high transmission at the center
portion of the glazing decreased from about 79.2% to about 7.4%, with a
changed transmission of about 70% to about 20% in a response time of
about 4.4 seconds when a potential of about 1.3 volts was applied
thereto. We made this determination by the detection method described in
Example 1, supra, except that the reflectometer was set in transmission
mode.

[0335]We also observed that the glazing bleached from about 15%
transmission to about 60% transmission in a response time of about 8.4
seconds, under about a zero applied potential. We noted good cycle
stability, ultraviolet stability and thermal stability.

Example 12

[0336]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0337]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 3.7% HVBF4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.6% RMPT
(as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a combination
comprising about 46.2% 3-hydroxypropionitrile (as a plasticizer), and, in
combination as a monomer component, about 23.1%
2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)-ethylacrylate and about 23.1% tetraethylene glycol
diacrylate. We also added about 2.3% "ESACURE" TZT (as a photoinitiator),
and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer composition to ensure
that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0338]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0339]We assembled electrochromic mirrors from "TEC-20" glass substrates
(where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced one another),
having dimensions of about 2.5''×10''×37 μm, with a
weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 37 μm
also applied.

[0340]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 12(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0341]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0342]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 12(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 12(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0343]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0344]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors of Example 12(B) and (C), supra, and observed this
mirror to color rapidly and uniformly to a bluish purple color.

[0345]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 68.4% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 13.3% when about 1.3 volts was applied thereto.
The response time for the reflectance to change from about 65% to about
20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 3.0 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0346]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 15% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 3.0 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform, and
the bleached appearance to be silvery.

Example 13

[0347]In this example, we chose to illustrate the beneficial properties
and characteristics of polychromic solid films manufactured within
electrochromic glazings consisting of sun roofs using a compatibilizing
plasticizer component. Also, in this example, we chose to formulate the
electrochromic monomer composition with an additional monomer having
polyfunctionality as a compatibilizing agent for the polychromic solid
film.

[0348]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0349]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition according to the
present invention comprising about 4.0% HVBF4 (as a cathodic
compound), about 1.7% RMPT (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously
dispersed in a combination comprising, in combination as a plasticizer,
about 10.2% propylene carbonate, about 17% benzyl acetone and about 14.7%
cyanoethyl sucrose, and, in combination as a monomer component, about
33.5% "QUICK CURE" B-565 and about 18.9% polyethylene glycol diacrylate
(400). We thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0350]B. Glazing Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0351]We constructed a glazing assembly consisting of a sun roof model by
dispensing a portion of the electrochromic monomer composition of Example
13(A), supra, onto the conductive surface of a "TEC-10" glass substrate
onto which we also placed 100 μm glass beads, and then positioned
thereover another "TEC-10" glass substrate, so that the electrochromic
monomer composition was between and in contact with the conductive
surface of the two glass substrates. We used "TEC-10" glass substrates
having dimensions of about 6''×16.5'', with bus bars attached at
the lengthwise side of the substrates to create a distance therebetween
of about 16.5''. The interpane distance between the "TEC-10" glass
substrates was about 100 μm.

[0352]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Glazing Assembly to Polychromic Solid Film

[0353]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 13(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the glazing assembly of Example 13(B),
supra, we placed the assembly onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assembly to ultraviolet radiation
in the same manner as described in Example 2(C), supra.

[0354]D. Use of Electrochromic Glazing Assembly

[0355]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to the glazing assembly,
and thereafter observed the assembly to color rapidly and uniformly to a
bluish purple color.

[0356]In addition, we observed that the high transmission at the center
portion of the glazing assembly was about 60.7% transmission which
decreased to a low transmission of about 6.0% when about 1.3 volts was
applied thereto. The response time for the transmission to change from
about 60% to about 10% when that potential was applied thereto was about
3.8 minutes. We made this determination by the detection method described
in Example 1, supra, except that the reflectometer was set in
transmission mode.

[0357]We also observed that the glazing assembly bleached from about 10%
transmission to about 45% transmission in a response time of about 4.2
minutes under about a zero applied potential.

Example 14

[0358]In this example, we chose to manufacture large area electrochromic
mirrors, by the two hole filling technique, to demonstrate the beneficial
properties and characteristics of the polychromic solid films within
large truck mirrors.

[0359]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0360]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 1.9% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.2% RMPT
(as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a combination
comprising about 53.3% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer) and about
43.6% "QUICK CURE" B-565 (as a monomer component). We thoroughly mixed
this electrochromic monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous
dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0361]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0362]We assembled large truck mirrors from FW-ITO glass substrates (where
the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced one another), with
the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass having a sheet
resistance of about 6 to about 8 ohms per square. The dimensions of the
mirror assemblies were about 6.5''×15''×44 μm, with a
weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 44 μm
also applied.

[0363]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 14(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0364]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0365]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 14(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the truck mirror assemblies of Example
14(B), supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion
UV Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 2(C), supra.

[0366]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0367]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic truck mirrors, and thereafter observed that the mirror
colored rapidly and uniformly to a bluish purple color.

[0368]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 67.4% decreased to a low reflectance of
about 7.9%, with a changed reflectance of about 65% to about 20% in a
response time of about 7.1 seconds when a potential of about 1.3 volts
was applied thereto. We made this determination by the reflectometer
described in Example 1, supra.

[0369]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 55% reflectance in a response time of about 15.0 seconds under
about a zero applied potential, and to its high reflectance shortly
thereafter.

[0370]The electrochromic truck mirrors performed satisfactorily with its
long axis positioned in vertical alignment with the ground.

Example 15

[0371]In this example, we have illustrated that the electrochromic monomer
composition may be prepared in stages and thereafter used to manufacture
polychromic solid films, and electrochromic devices manufactured with
same, that demonstrates the beneficial properties and characteristics
herein described. Also, in this example, like Examples 12 and 13, supra,
we chose to formulate the electrochromic monomer composition with a
difunctional monomer component to illustrate the properties and
characteristics attendant with the addition of that component.

[0372]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0373]The electrochromic monomer composition of this example comprised by
weight about 3.9% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 2.3%
t-butyl ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed
in a combination of about 62% propylene carbonate (as the plasticizer),
and, in combination as a monomer component, about 20% caprolactone
acrylate and about 6.5% polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400). We also
added about 0.9% "IRGACURE" 184 (as a photoinitiator) and about 4.4%
"UVINUL" N 35 (as an ultraviolet stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed
this electrochromic monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous
dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0374]We prepared the above composition by first combining the propylene
carbonate, caprolactone acrylate, polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400)
and "IRGACURE" 184, with stirring and bubbling nitrogen gas through the
combination, and initiating cure by exposing this combination to a source
of fluorescent light at room temperature for a period of time of about 10
minutes.

[0375]At this point, we removed the source of fluorescent light, and
combined therewith the EVClO4, t-butyl ferrocene and "UVINUL" N 35
to obtain a homogeneously dispersed electrochromic monomer composition.
We monitored the extent of cure by the increase of viscosity.

[0376]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0377]We assembled interior automotive mirrors with HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass
having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The dimensions of
the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×53 μm, with a
weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 53 μm
also applied.

[0378]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 15(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0379]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0380]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 15(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 15(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0381]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirrors

[0382]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the mirrors, and
thereafter observed that the mirror colored rapidly and uniformly to a
blue color with a greenish hue.

[0383]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 82.6% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 8.8%. The response time for the reflectance to
change from about 70% to about 20% was about 2.5 seconds at about room
temperature and about the same when the surrounding temperature was
reduced to about -28° C. when a potential of about 1.3 volts was
applied thereto. We made that determination by the reflectometer
described in Example 1, supra.

[0384]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 1.9 seconds at about
room temperature and of about 7.4 seconds when the surrounding
temperature was reduced to about -28° C. under about zero applied
potential.

Example 16

[0385]In this example, we chose to manufacture the polychromic solid film
from a commercially available epoxy resin together with a cross-linking
agent to illustrate enhanced prolonged coloration performance attained
when such combinations are used in the electrochromic monomer
composition.

[0386]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0387]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 4.7% HVBF4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.7%
ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a
combination comprising about 64.5% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer)
and about 26.5% "CYRACURE" resin UVR-6105 (as a monomer component) and
about 1.2% 2-ethyl-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1,3-propanediol (as a cross-linking
agent). We also added about 1.4% "CYRACURE" UVI-6990 (as a
photoinitiator), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0388]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0389]We assembled interior automotive mirrors HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with the clear, front glass and silvered, rear glass having
a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The dimensions of the
mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×53 μm, with a
weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 53 μm
also applied.

[0390]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 16(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0391]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0392]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 16(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 16(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0393]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0394]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors prepared according to Examples 16(B) and (C),
supra, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and uniformly to a blue
color with a greenish hue.

[0395]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 80.0% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.3% when about 1.3 volts was applied thereto.
The response time for the reflectance to change from about 70% to about
20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.9 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0396]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 3.8 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

[0397]We further observed that the mirror bleached uniformly and
satisfactorily after prolonged coloration in excess of about 8 hours.

Example 17

[0398]In this example, like Example 16, we chose to manufacture
polychromic solid films from a commercially available epoxy resin
together with a cross-linking agent to illustrate enhanced prolonged
coloration performance attained when such combinations are used in the
electrochromic monomer composition.

[0399]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0400]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition according to the
present invention comprising about 4,7% HVBF4 (as a cathodic
compound), about 1.4% ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 64.6% propylene
carbonate (as a plasticizer), about 17.5% "CYRACURE" resin UVR-6105 (as a
monomer component) and about 10.1% "CARBOWAX" PEG 1450 (as a
cross-linking agent). We also added about 1.4% "CYRACURE" UVI-6990 (as a
photoinitiator), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0401]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0402]We assembled interior automotive mirrors from HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass
having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The dimensions of
the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×53 μm, with a
weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 53 μm
also applied.

[0403]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 17(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0404]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0405]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 17(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 17(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0406]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0407]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and thereafter observed this mirror to color
rapidly and uniformly to a blue color with a greenish hue.

[0408]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 75.2% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.6% when about 1.3 volts was applied thereto.
The response time for the reflectance to change from about 70% to about
20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.4 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0409]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 4.2 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

[0410]We further observed that the mirror bleached uniformly and
satisfactorily after prolonged coloration in excess of about 8 hours.

Example 18

[0411]In this example, we chose ferrocene as the anodic electrochromic
compound together with a monomer component containing the combination of
a monofunctional monomer and a difunctional monomer to illustrate the
beneficial properties and characteristics of polychromic solid films made
therefrom.

[0412]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0413]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 4.3% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.9%
ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a
combination comprising about 55.9% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer)
and, in combination as a monomer component, about 12.7% caprolactone
acrylate and about 17.2% polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400). We also
added about 3.5% benzoin i-butyl ether (as a photoinitiator) and about
4.3% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an ultraviolet stabilizing agent), and thoroughly
mixed this electrochromic monomer composition to ensure that a homogenous
dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0414]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0415]We assembled interior automotive mirrors from HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with both the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear
glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The
dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×44
μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of
about 44 μm also applied.

[0416]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 18(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0417]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0418]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 18(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 18(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B. While the belt advanced initially at a rate of
about fifty feet per minute, we exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation generated by the D fusion lamp of the F-300 B. We passed these
mirror assemblies under the fusion lamp fifteen times pausing for two
minute intervals between every third pass, then nine times at that rate
pausing for two minute intervals between every third pass, and finally
six times at a rate of about twenty-five feet per minute pausing for two
minute intervals after every other pass.

[0419]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0420]We applied a potential of about 1.5 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors of Examples 18(B) and (C), supra, and observed
this mirror to color rapidly and uniformly to a blue color with a
greenish hue.

[0421]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 77.1% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.9% when about 1.5 volts was applied thereto.
The response time for the reflectance to change from about 70% to about
20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.8 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0422]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 2.6 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 19

[0423]In this example, we chose ferrocene as the anodic electrochromic
compound together with a monomer component containing the combination of
a monomer and a commercially available ultraviolet curable formulation to
illustrate the beneficial properties and characteristics of polychromic
solid films made therefrom.

[0424]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0425]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 4.3% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.9%
ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a
combination of about 55.9% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer), and,
in combination as a monomer component, about 10.3% caprolactone acrylate,
about 15.5% polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400) and about 4.3% "SARBOX"
acrylate resin (SB 500). We also added about 3.5% benzoin i-butyl ether
(as a photoinitiator) and about 4.3% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an ultraviolet
stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0426]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0427]We assembled interior automotive mirrors with HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with both the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear
glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The
dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×53
μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of
about 53 μm also applied.

[0428]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 19(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0429]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0430]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 19(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 19(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 18(C), supra.

[0431]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirrors

[0432]We applied a potential of about 1.5 volts to one of the mirrors, and
thereafter observed that the mirror colored rapidly and uniformly to a
blue color with a greenish hue.

[0433]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 79.6% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.6%. The response time for the reflectance to
change from about 70% to about 20% was about 2.2 seconds when a potential
of about 1.5 volts was applied thereto. We made that determination by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

[0434]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 2.5 seconds under
about zero applied potential.

Example 20

[0435]In this example, we chose to manufacture interior rearview mirrors
from polychromic solid films prepared with a commercially available epoxy
resin together with a cross-linking agent to illustrate enhanced
prolonged coloration performance attained when such combinations are used
in the electrochromic monomer composition.

[0436]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0437]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 4.61% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 2.1%
ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a
combination comprising about 57.4% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer)
and, in Combination as a monomer component, about 8.2% "CYRACURE" resin
UVR-6105 and about 14.0% caprolactone, and about 1.1%
2-ethyl-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1,3-propanediol (as a cross-linking agent). We
also added, in combination as photoinitiators, about 1.4% "CYRACURE"
UVI-6990 and about 1.5% benzoin i-butyl ether, and thoroughly mixed this
electrochromic monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous
dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0438]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0439]We assembled interior automotive mirrors HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass
having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The dimensions of
the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×44 μm, with a
weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 44 μm
also applied.

[0440]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 20(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0441]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0442]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 20(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 20(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0443]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0444]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors prepared according to Examples 20(B) and (C),
supra, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and uniformly to a blue
color with a greenish hue.

[0445]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 76.9% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.9% when about 1.4 volts was applied thereto.
The response time for the reflectance to change from about 70% to about
20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 3.1 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0446]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 3.3 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 21

[0447]In this example, we illustrate that a prolonged application of a
bleach potential--i.e., a potential having a polarity opposite to that
used to achieve color--having a magnitude greater than about 0.2 volts,
and preferably about 0.4 volts, may be used to enhance bleach speeds of
electrochromic devices, such as automotive rearview mirrors, manufactured
with polychromic solid films as the medium of variable reflectance.

[0448]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0449]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 4.3% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.9%
ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a
combination comprising about 60.2% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer)
and, in combination as a monomer component, about 8.6% caprolactone
acrylate, about 12.9% polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400) and about 4.3%
"SARBOX" acrylate resin (SB 500). We also added about 3.4% "IRGACURE" 184
(as a photoinitiator) and about 4.3% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an ultraviolet
stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0450]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0451]We assembled interior automotive mirrors from HW-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with both the front, clear glass and the silvered, rear
glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The
dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×44
μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of
about 44 μm also applied.

[0452]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 21(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0453]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0454]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 21(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 21(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0455]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0456]We applied a potential of about -0.7 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors of Examples 21(B) and (C), supra, and observed
that mirror reflectance at the center portion of the mirror remained high
at about 76%.

[0457]Upon reversing the polarity of the applied potential and increasing
the magnitude to about +1.5 volts, we observed this mirror to color
rapidly and uniformly to a blue color.

[0458]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror decreased to a low reflectance of about 7.8%, with
the response time for the reflectance to change from about 70% to about
20% when that potential was applied thereto being about 2.4 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0459]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 1.7 seconds under a
potential of about -0.7 volts with a high reflectance of about 78%
reestablished. We noted that when a potential of about zero volts to
about -0.2 volts was applied to the mirror to bleach the mirror from the
fully dimmed stated, the response time to achieve this effect was about
2.0 seconds. We also noted that when a potential having a greater
magnitude, such as about -0.8 volts to about -0.9 volts, was applied to
the mirror, the color assumed by the polychromic solid film may be
controlled. For instance, a slight blue tint may be achieved at that
aforestated greater negative potential using the electrochromic system of
this example so that the bleached state of the electrochromic mirror may
be matched to the color appearance of conventional nonelectrochromic
blue-tint mirrors commonly featured on luxury automobiles.

Example 22

[0460]In this example, we illustrate that a gradient opacity panel, such
as that which may be used as an electrochromic shade band on an
automobile windshield, may be created by configuring the bus bars on the
electrochromic assembly so they are affixed partially around, or along
the opposite sides, of the assembly, thus creating a transition between
the areas of the device to which voltage is applied and those where no
voltage is applied.

[0461]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0462]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 2.1% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.4%
t-butyl ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed
in a combination of about 54.2% propylene carbonate (as the plasticizer),
and, in combination as a monomer component, about 28.6% B-565 and about
13.8% Urethane Acrylate (Soft) (CM 953). We thoroughly mixed this
electrochromic monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous
dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0463]B. Panel Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0464]We constructed a panel assembly containing an electrochromic shade
band by dispensing a portion of the electrochromic monomer composition of
Example 22(A), supra, onto the conductive surface of a HW-ITO coated
glass substrate having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square.
Onto this substrate we also placed 100 μm glass beads, and then
positioned thereover another HW-ITO coated glass substrate having a sheet
resistance of about 15 ohms per square so that the electrochromic monomer
composition was between and in contact with the conductive surface of the
two glass substrates. The dimensions of the assembly were about
4.5''×14'', with an interpane distance between the glass substrates
of about 100 μm.

[0465]We connected bus bars along the 14'' sides of the panel assembly
only about 4'' inward from the edge of each of the opposing 14'' sides.
We thereafter affixed electrical leads to the bus bars.

[0466]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within Panel
Assembly to Polychromic Solid Film

[0467]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 22(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the window panel assembly of Example 22(B),
supra, we placed the assembly onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the panel assembly to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 2(C), supra.

[0468]Once the polychromic solid film was formed, we applied a weather
barrier of epoxy resin along, and over, the glass joints to prevent entry
of environmental contaminants. This weather barrier consisted of a bead
of "ENVIBAR" UV 1244 ultraviolet curable adhesive followed by the
application of "SMOOTH-ON" room temperature cure epoxy (commercially
available from Smooth-On Inc., Gillette, N.J.).

[0469]D. Demonstration of Electrochromic Shade Band within Panel Assembly

[0470]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to the panel assembly, and
thereafter observed that only the 4'' region through which an electric
field was formed colored rapidly, uniformly and intensely to a blue
color. We also observed that color extended beyond that 4'' region for a
distance of about 1'' in a gradient opacity which changed gradually from
an intense coloration immediately adjacent the bus bar/non-bus bar
transition to a bleached appearance beyond that additional 1'' region or
thereabouts.

[0471]In addition, we observed that the high transmittance at the center
portion of the panel assembly was about 79.6% transmittance which
decreased to a low transmittance of about 7.6%. The response time for the
transmittance to change from about 70% to about 20% was about 2.2 seconds
when a potential of about 1.5 volts was applied thereto. We made that
determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1, supra, except
that the reflectometer was set in transmission mode.

[0472]We also observed that the panel assembly bleached from about 10%
transmittance to about 60% transmittance in a response time of about 2.5
seconds under about zero applied potential.

Example 23

[0473]In this example, like Example 3, supra, we installed the interior
automotive mirror as a rearview mirror in an automobile to observe its
performance under conditions attendant with actual use.

[0474]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0475]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 3.0% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.3%
ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a
combination of about 62.6% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer), and,
in combination as a monomer component, about 8.9% caprolactone acrylate,
about 13.4% polyethylene glycol diaciylate (400) and about 4.5% "SARBOX"
acrylate resin (SB 500). We also added about 1.8% "IRGACURE" 184 (as a
photoinitiator) and about 4.5% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an ultraviolet
stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer
composition to ensure that a homogenous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0476]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0477]We assembled an interior automotive mirror with HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with both the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear
glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The
dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×74
μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of
about 74 μm also applied.

[0478]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 23(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0479]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0480]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 23(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assembly of Example 23(B), supra,
we placed the assembly onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV Curing
System F-300 B, and exposed the assembly to ultraviolet radiation in the
same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0481]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0482]We applied a potential of about 1.5 volts to the mirror, and
thereafter observed rapid and uniform coloration to a blue color with a
greenish hue.

[0483]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 72.0%; reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.5%. The response time for the reflectance to
change from about 70% to about 20% was about 3.5 seconds when a potential
of about 1.5 volts was applied thereto. We made that determination by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

[0484]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 5.2 seconds under
about zero applied potential.

[0485]We have successfully installed and operated this mirror in an
automobile as a rearview mirror and have achieved excellent results.

Example 24

[0486]In this example, we chose to illustrate the beneficial properties
and characteristics of polychromic solid films manufactured within an
electrochromic sun roof panel.

[0487]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0488]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition according to the
present invention comprising about 1.4 EVClO4 (as a cathodic
compound), about 0.9% t-butyl ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both
homogeneously dispersed in a combination comprising about 39% propylene
carbonate (as a plasticizer), and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 39% "QUICK CURE" B-565 and about 19.53% Urethane Acrylate (Soft)
(CM 953). We thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0490]We prepared the glass substrates for use in the glazing assembly of
this example by placing flat "TEC-20" glass substrates (with a black
ceramic frit band around their perimeter edge regions), having dimensions
of about 12''×16'', onto the mold of a bending instrument at room
temperature under ambient conditions, and then increasing the temperature
of the substrates to be bent to at least about 500° C. thereby
causing the substrates to conform to the shape of the mold.

[0491]We also placed, as a spacer means, black drafting tape (Zipatone,
Inc., Hillsdale, Ill.), having a width of about 0.0625'' and a thickness
of about 150 μm, onto a conductive surface of one of the bent "TEC-20"
glass substrates in about 1.5'' intervals across the width of the
substrate. At such intervals, we found the black drafting tape to be
positioned in an aesthetically appealing manner, and to maintain
uniformity of the electrochromic media across the full dimensions of the
panel.

[0492]We assembled the sun roof panel by dispensing a portion of the
electrochromic monomer composition of Example 24(A), supra, onto the
conductive surface of the substrate to be used as the concave interior
surface (i.e., the Number 4 surface), and placed thereover the conductive
surface of the substrate bearing the spacer means so that the
electrochromic monomer composition was between and in contact with the
conductive surface of the glass substrates. We then placed the panel
assembly in a vacuum bag, gently elevated the temperature and evacuated
substantially most of the air from the vacuum bag. In this way, the
electrochromic monomer composition dispersed uniformly between the
substrates under the pressure from the atmosphere.

[0493]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition into
Polychromic Solid Film

[0494]We then placed the sun roof panel assembly (still contained in the
vacuum bag) into a Sunlighter model 1530 UV chamber, equipped with three
mercury lamps (commercially available from Test-Lab Apparatus Co.,
Milford, N.H.), and allowed the sun roof panel to remain exposed to the
ultraviolet radiation emitted by the lamps for a period of time of about
30 minutes. The interpane distance between the "TEC-20" glass substrates
was about 150 μm.

[0495]We thereafter attached bus bars at the 12'' side of the substrates
to create a distance therebetween of about 16''. We then attached
electrical leads to the bus bars.

[0496]D. Use of Electrochromic Sun Roof Panel

[0497]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to the glazing assembly,
and thereafter observed the panel to color rapidly and uniformly to a
bluish purple color.

[0498]In addition, we observed that the high transmission at the center
portion of the sun roof panel was about 67% transmission which decreased
to a low transmission of about 5% when about 1.3 volts was applied
thereto. The response time for the transmission to change from about 60%
to about 10% when that potential was applied thereto was about 3 minutes.
We made this determination by the detection method described in Example
1, supra, except that the reflectometer was set in transmission mode.

[0499]We also observed that the glazing assembly bleached from about 5%
transmission to about 60% transmission in a response time of about 6.5
minutes under about a zero applied potential.

[0500]The ultraviolet stability, scatter safety performance and/or
electrochromic performance, and reduction in transmittance of
near-infrared radiation of sun roof panels manufactured in accordance
with the teaching herein, may be augmented by using the methods taught in
Lynam III and Lynam V, and in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,239,406
(Lynam).

Example 25

[0501]In this example, we chose to illustrate the beneficial properties
and characteristics of polychromic solid films manufactured within an
electrochromic sun visor having a segmented design.

[0502]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0503]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition according to the
present invention comprising about 2.4% EVClO4 (as a cathodic
compound), about 1.6% ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both
homogeneously dispersed in a combination comprising about 48% propylene
carbonate (as a plasticizer), and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 32% "QUICK CURE" B-565 and about 16% Urethane Acrylate (Soft) (CN
953). We thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0504]B. Sun Visor with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0505]We assembled the sun visor of this example from FW-ITO coated glass
substrates, having dimensions of about 4''×14'' and a sheet
resistance of about 6 to about 8 ohms per square, onto which we
previously placed deletion lines to form three individual segments. We
created these deletion lines by screening a photo-resist material onto
the glass substrate prior to depositing the ITO coating, and thereafter
applying a coat of ITO onto the photo-resist coated substrate, and
washing away the photoetched resist material using an organic solvent,
such as acetone.

[0506]We assembled the sun visor by placing onto the 14'' edges of the
conductive surface of one of the FW-ITO glass substrates "KAPTON" high
temperature polyamide tape (E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company,
Wilmington, Del.), having a thickness of 70 μm. We then dispensed a
portion of the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 25(A),
supra, onto that conductive surface and then placed thereover the
conductive surface of another substrate so that the electrochromic
monomer composition was between and in contact with the conductive
surface of the glass substrates. The interpane distance between the
substrates was about 70 μm.

[0507]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within Sun
Visor to Polychromic Solid Film

[0508]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 25(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the sun visor assembly of Example 25(B),
supra, we placed the assembly onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assembly to ultraviolet radiation
in the same manner as described in Example 2(C), supra.

[0509]Upon completion of the transformation process, we applied "ENVIBAR"
UV 1244 to the glass edges and joints and again exposed the sun visor to
ultraviolet radiation to further weather barrier protect the sun visor.
We then applied "SMOOTH-ON" epoxy to those portions of the sun visor to
form a final weather barrier about the sun visor.

[0510]D. Use of Electrochromic Sun Visor

[0511]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to the sun visor, and
thereafter observed the sun visor to color rapidly and uniformly to a
bluish purple color.

[0512]In addition, we observed that the high transmission at the center
portion of the sun visor was about 74.9% transmission which decreased to
a low transmission of about 2.5% when about 1.5 volts was applied
thereto. The response time for the transmission to change from the high
transmission state to about 10% when that potential was applied thereto
was about 9 seconds. We made this determination by the detection method
described in Example 1, supra, except that the reflectometer was set in
transmission mode.

[0513]We also observed that the sun visor bleached from about 10%
transmission to about 70% transmission in a response time of about 15
seconds under about a zero applied potential.

[0514]The segmented portions of the sun visor of this example may be made
in a horizontal direction or a vertical direction, and individual
segments may be activated by connection to an individual segment
addressing means, such as a mechanical switch, a photosensor, a touch
sensor, including a touch activated glass panel, a voice activated
sensor, an RF activated sensor and the like. In addition, segments may be
activated individually or as pluralities by responding to glare from the
sun, such as when the sun rises from and falls toward the horizon, or as
it traverses the horizon. This sun visor, as well as other electrochromic
glazings, such as windows, sun roofs and the like, may use automatic
glare sensing means that involve single or multiple photosensors, such as
those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,148,014 (Lynam).

Example 26

[0515]In this example, we assembled an interior automotive mirror as a
rearview mirror, to be installed in an automobile to observe its
performance under conditions attendant with actual use.

[0516]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0517]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 3.6% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.6%
ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a
combination of about 61.9% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer), and,
in combination as a monomer component, about 11.1% polyethylene glycol
monomethacrylate (400), about. 11.1% polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400)
and about 4.4% "SARBOX" acrylate resin (SB 500). We also added about 1.8%
"IRGACURE" 184 (as a photoinitiator) and about 4.4% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an
ultraviolet stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic
monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the
components was achieved.

[0518]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0519]We assembled an interior automotive mirror with HWG-ITO coated glass
substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced
one another), with both the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear
glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square. The
dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about 2.5''×10''×53
μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of
about 53 μm also applied.

[0520]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 26(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0521]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0522]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 26(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assembly of Example 26(B), supra,
we placed the assembly onto the conveyor belt of a Fusion UV Curing
System F-300 B, and exposed the assembly to ultraviolet radiation in the
same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0523]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0524]We applied a potential of about 1.5 volts to the mirror, and
thereafter observed rapid and uniform coloration to a blue color with a
greenish hue.

[0525]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 72.0% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.4%. The response time for the reflectance to
change from about 70% to about 20% was about 2.1 seconds when a potential
of about 1.5 volts was applied thereto. We made that determination by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

[0526]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 4.0 seconds under
about zero applied potential.

Example 27

[0527]In this example, we assembled automotive mirrors for use with the
1993 Lincoln Continental automobile. Specifically, Example 27(A), infra,
illustrates the manufacture and use of an interior rearview mirror, and
Example 27(B), infra, illustrates the use of an exterior mirror, sized
for driver-side and passenger-side applications, to be installed in the
automobile.

[0528]A. 1993 Lincoln Continental Interior Rearview Mirror

[0529]1. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0530]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 3.6% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.6%
ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a
combination of about 62% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer), and, in
combination as a monomer component, about 8.9% caprolactone acrylate,
about 13.3% polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400) and about 4.4% "SARBOX"
acrylate resin (SB 500). We also added about 1.8% "IRGACURE" 184 (as a
photoinitiator) and about 4.4% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an ultraviolet
stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0532]We assembled an interior rearview mirror, with an interpane distance
of 53 μm, from HWG-ITO coated 093 glass substrates (where the
conductive surface of each glass substrate faced one another), with both
the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass having a sheet
resistance of about 15 ohms per square. We also applied a weather barrier
of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 53 μm.

[0533]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 27(A)(1), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0534]3. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0535]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 27(A)(1),
supra, was uniformly applied within the mirror assembly of Example
27(A)(2), supra, we placed the assembly onto the conveyor belt of a
Fusion UV Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assembly to ultraviolet
radiation in the same manner as described in Example 1(D), supra.

[0536]4. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0537]We applied a potential of about 1.5 volts to the mirror, and
thereafter observed rapid and uniform coloration to a blue color with a
greenish hue.

[0538]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 76.5% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.4%. The response time for the reflectance to
change from about 70% to about 20% was about 2.2 seconds when a potential
of about 1.5 volts was applied thereto. We made that determination by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

[0539]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 2.7 seconds under
about zero applied potential.

[0542]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 2.6% EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.2%
ferrocene (as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a
combination of about 63% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer), and, in
combination as a monomer component, about 9% caprolactone acrylate, about
13.5% polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400) and about 4.5% "SARBOX"
acrylate resin (SB 500). We also added about 1.8% "IRGACURE" 184 (as a
photoinitiator) and about 4.5% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an ultraviolet
stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0544]We assembled exterior mirrors, with an interpane distance of 74
μm, from FW-ITO coated 063 glass substrates (where the conductive
surface of each glass substrate faced one another), with both the clear,
front glass and the silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of
about 6 to about 8 ohms per square. We also applied a weather barrier of
an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 74 μm.

[0545]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 27(B)(1), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0546]3. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0547]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 27(B)(1),
supra, was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example
27(B)(2), supra, we placed the assemblies onto the conveyor belt of a
Fusion UV Curing System F-300 B, and exposed the assemblies to
ultraviolet radiation in the same manner as described in Example 1(D),
supra.

[0548]4. Use of Electrochromic Mirrors

[0549]We applied a potential of about 1.5 volts to one of the mirrors, and
thereafter observed rapid and uniform coloration to a blue color with a
greenish hue.

[0550]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 72% reflectance which decreased to a low
reflectance of about 8%. The response time for the reflectance to change
from about 70% to about 20% was about 3.9 seconds when a potential of
about 1.5 volts was applied thereto. We made that determination by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

[0551]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 4.0 seconds under
about zero applied potential.

Example 28

[0552]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0553]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 6.31% HVSS (as a cathodic compound), about 1.63% ferrocene
(as an anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a combination of
about 47.48% propylene carbonate and about 8.63% 3-hydroxypropionitrile
(as a plasticizer), and, in combination as a monomer component, about
12.95% caprolactone acrylate, about 8.63% polyethylene glycol diacrylate
(400) and about 8.63% "SARBOX" acrylate resin (SB 501). We also added, in
combination as photoinitiators, about 0.13% "IRGACURE" 184 and about
1.29% "CYRACURE" UVI-6990 and about 4.32% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an
ultraviolet stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic
monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the
components was achieved.

[0554]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0555]We assembled an interior rearview mirror, with an interpane distance
of 53 μm, from HWG-ITO coated 093 glass substrates (where the
conductive surface of each glass substrate faced one another), with both
the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass having a sheet
resistance of about 15 ohms per square. We also applied a weather barrier
of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 53 μm.

[0556]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 28(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0557]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0558]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 28(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assembly of Example 28(B), supra,
we placed the "SARBOX" acrylate resin (SB 500E50) and about 4.37%
"CYRACURE" resin UVR-6110. We also added, in combination as
photoinitiators, about 0.44%; "IRGACURE" 184 and about 1.31% "CYRACURE"
UVI-6990 and about 4.37% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an ultraviolet stabilizing
agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0559]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0560]We assembled an interior rearview mirror, with an interpane distance
of 53 μm, from HWG-ITO coated 093 glass substrates (where the
conductive surface of each glass substrate faced one another), with both
the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass having a sheet
resistance of about 15 ohms per square. We also applied a weather barrier
of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 53 μm.

[0561]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 28(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0562]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0563]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 28(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assembly of Example 28(B), supra,
we placed the assembly onto the conveyor belt of a Hanovia UV Curing
System (Hanovia Corp., Newark, N.J.), fitted with UV lamp 6506A431, with
the intensity dial set at 300 watts. We exposed the assembly to
ultraviolet radiation in a similar manner as described in Example 1(D),
supra, by passing the assembly under the UV lamp with the conveyor speed
set at about 20% to about 50% for about 120 to about 180 multiple passes.

[0564]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0565]We applied a potential of about 1.2 volts to the mirror, and
thereafter observed rapid and uniform coloration to a blue color with a
greenish hue.

[0566]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 73.9% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.4%. The response time for the reflectance to
change from about 70% to about 20% was about 3.9 seconds when a potential
of about 1.2 volts was applied thereto. We made that determination by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

Example 29

[0567]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0568]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 4.38% DSMVClO4 (as a cathodic compound) and about 0.57%
EHPVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.62% ferrocene (as an
anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about
56.74% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer), and, in combination as a
monomer component, about 13.10% caprolactone acrylate, about 8.73%
polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400), about 4.37% "SARBOX" acrylate resin
(SB 500E50) and about 4.37% "CYRACURE" resin UVR-6110. We also added, in
combination as photoinitiators, about 0.44% "IRGACURE" 184 and about
1.31% "CYRACURE" UVI-6990 and about 4.37% "UVINUL" N 35 (as an
ultraviolet stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this electrochromic
monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the
components was achieved.

[0569]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0570]We assembled an interior rearview mirror, with an interpane distance
of 53 μm, from HWG-ITO coated 093 glass substrates (where the
conductive surface of each glass substrate faced one another), with both
the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass having a sheet
resistance of about 15 ohms per square. We also applied a weather barrier
of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 53 μm.

[0571]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 29(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0572]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0573]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 29(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assembly of Example 29(B), supra,
we placed the assembly onto the conveyor belt of a Hanovia UV Curing
System (Hanovia Corp., Newark, N.J., fitted with UV lamp 6506A431, with
the intensity dial set at 300 watts. We exposed the assembly to
ultraviolet radiation in a similar manner as described in Example 1(D),
supra, by passing the assembly under the UV lamp with the conveyor speed
set at about 20% to about 50% for about 120 to about 180 multiple passes.

[0574]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0575]We applied a potential of about 1.2 volts to the mirror, and
thereafter observed rapid and uniform coloration to a blue color with a
greenish hue.

[0576]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 79.6% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 6.7%. The response time for the reflectance to
change from about 70% to about 20% was about 2.8 seconds when a potential
of about 1.2 volts was applied thereto. We made that determination by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

Example 30

[0577]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0578]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 4.42% DSMVClO4 (as a cathodic compound) and about 0.59%
EHPVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.65% ferrocene (as an
anodic compound), both homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about
48.67% propylene carbonate (as a plasticizer), and, in combination as a
monomer component, about 13.27% caprolactone acrylate, about 8.85%
polyethylene glycol diacrylate (400), about 8.85% "SARBOX" acrylate resin
(SB 500E50) and about 8.85% "CYRACURE" resin UVR-6110. We also added, in
combination as photoinitiators, about 0.44% "IRGACURE" 184 and about
1.77% "CYRACURE" UVI-6990 and about 2.65% 2-hydroxy-4-octoxybenzophenone
(as an ultraviolet stabilizing agent), and thoroughly mixed this
electrochromic monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous
dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0579]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0580]We assembled an interior rearview mirror, with an interpane distance
of 53 μm, from HWG-ITO coated 093 glass substrates (where the
conductive surface of each glass substrate faced one another), with both
the clear, front glass and the silvered, rear glass having a sheet
resistance of about 15 ohms per square. We also applied a weather barrier
of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 53 μm.

[0581]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 30(A), supra, using the vacuum backfilling
technique [as described in Varaprasad III, supra].

[0582]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0583]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 30(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assembly of Example 30(B), supra,
we placed the assembly onto the conveyor belt of a Hanovia UV Curing
System (Hanovia Corp., Newark, N.J., fitted with UV lamp 6506A431, with
the intensity dial set at 300 watts. We exposed the assembly to
ultraviolet radiation in a similar manner as described in Example 1(D),
supra, by passing the assembly under the UV lamp with the conveyor speed
set at about 20% to about 50% for about 120 to about 180 multiple passes.

[0584]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0585]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to the mirror, and
thereafter observed rapid and uniform coloration to a blue color with a
greenish hue.

[0586]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 71% reflectance which decreased to a low
reflectance of about 6.9%. The response time for the reflectance to
change from about 70% to about 20% was about 3.9 seconds when a potential
of about 1.3 volts was applied thereto. We made that determination by the
reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

Example 31

[0587]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0588]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.36% HUVPF6 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.97%
EVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.17% Ferrocene (FE, an
anodic compound), about 0.39% 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an
anodic compound), all homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about
89.68% propylene carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a
monomer component, about 0.65% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 3.08%
Lexorez 1931-50 (a polyol), and about 0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and
about 4.67% Uvinul N 35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this
monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the
components was achieved.

[0589]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0590]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×125 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 125 μm also applied.

[0591]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 31(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad supra).

[0592]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0593]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 31(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 31(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

[0594]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0595]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with bluish hue.

[0596]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 72.3% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.1% when. about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.1 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0597]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 7.0 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 32

[0598]A. Preparation of Prepolymer Composition that Includes a Viologen
Containing Polyol

[0599]We prepared viologen containing polyol through copolymerization of
ESMVClO4 with caprolactone acrylate according to the following
procedure: We prepared a reaction mixture comprising by weight about
4.86% ESMVCLO4 (a viologen with vinyl functionality), about 1.94%
UVI 6990 (a photoinitiator), about 0.97% Irgacure 184 (a photoinitiator),
all homogeneously dispersed in a combination comprising about 43.69%
caprolactone acrylate (an acrylate with hydroxyl functionality) and
48.54% propylene carbonate and placed it in a sealed glass container. We
placed the sealed glass container on a conveyor belt of a Fusion UV
Curing System F-300B. While the belt advanced at a rate of about 10 feet
per minute, we exposed the reaction mixture to ultraviolet radiation
generated by the D fusion lamp of the F 300B. We passed the sealed glass
container containing the reaction mixture under the fusion lamp light
twenty five times at that rate, pausing momentarily between the passes to
allow the prepolymer composition to cool. We used the resulting
prepolymer composition that includes a viologen containing polyol to
prepare the electrochromic monomer composition.

[0600]B. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0601]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 2.11% prepolymer composition of Example 32(A), supra (as a
cathodic compound and polyol), about 1.97% EVCl04 (as a cathodic
compound), and about 1.01% 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an
anodic compound), all homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about
76.65% propylene carbonate (as plasticizer) and in combination as a
monomer component, about 2.68% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 15.52%
Desmophen 1700 (a polyol), and about 0.06% T-9 (a tin catalyst). We
thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous
dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0602]C. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0603]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0604]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 32(B), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0605]D. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0606]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 32(B), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 32(C),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

[0607]E. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0608]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0609]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 64.1% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 6.5% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 60% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.6 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0610]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 50% reflectance in a response time of about 12.7 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 33

[0611]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0612]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.3% HHVPF6 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.97%
EVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.59%
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 89.71% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 0.65% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 3.08% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.03% T-9 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.67% Uvinul N
35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0613]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0614]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from TEC
15 and from HW-ITO glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each
glass substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and
the silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0615]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 33(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0616]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition Within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0617]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 33(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 33(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 80° C. for about 2 hours whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ the solid polymer matrix film inside
the mirror.

[0618]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0619]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0620]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 71.8% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.0% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.2 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0621]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 4.9 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

[0623]To demonstrate the cycle stability of the electrochromic mirrors
assemblies of Example 33(B and C), supra, we subjected the electrochromic
mirrors made from TEC 15 glass substrates to 20 seconds color--20 seconds
bleach cycles at different test temperatures required by automotive
specifications. We have observed good cycle stability after about 85,000
cycles which include about 25,000 cycles at 70° C., about 20,000
cycles at -30° C., and about 40,000 cycles at room temperature. We
observed, that the high reflectance of the mirror at the center portion
of the mirror changed from 71.8% to 71.0% and that the low reflectance
changed from 7.0% to 7.5% after about 85,000 cycles. We also observed
that the response time for reflectance change from about 70% to about 20%
changed from 2.2 seconds to 2.7 seconds and the response time for
reflectance change from about 10% to about 60% changed from 4.9 seconds
to 5.2 seconds after about 85,000 cycles.

[0624]To demonstrate the ultraviolet stability, we exposed the
electrochromic mirror assemblies made from HW-ITO glass substrate of
Example 33 supra ,to at least about 2600 kJ/m2 using a Xenon
weatherometer as per SAE J1960. We observed, that the high reflectance of
the mirror at the center portion of the mirror changed from 79.4% to
78.9% and that the low reflectance changed from 6.0% to 6.25% after
exposure to ultraviolet radiation. We also observed that the response
time for reflectance change from about 70% to about 20% changed from 1.6
seconds to 1.7 seconds and the response time for reflectance change from
about 10% to about 60% changed from 4.1 seconds to 4.4 seconds after
exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

[0625]To demonstrate the thermal stability of the electrochromic mirror
assemblies of Example 33(B and C), supra, we placed the mirror assemblies
made from HW-ITO glass substrates in an electric oven maintained at about
85° C. for at least about 400 hours. We observed, that the high
reflectance of the mirror at the center portion of the mirror changed
from 79% to 77% and that the low reflectance changed from 6.1% to 5.7%
after the heat test. We also observed that the response time for
reflectance change from about 70% to about 20% changed from 1.5 seconds
to 1.7 seconds and the response time for reflectance change from about
10% to about 60% changed from 4.1 seconds to 4.4 seconds after the heat
test.

[0626]The environmental and overall performance the electrochromic mirrors
was suitable for use in a vehicle.

Example 34

[0627]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0628]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.37% HUVPF6 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.96%
EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.59%
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 89.65% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 0.65% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 3.08% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.67% Uvinul N
35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0629]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0630]In this example, we assembled exterior automotive mirrors using TEC
15 glass for the front substrate and a multi-layer metal reflector coated
glass (consisting of about 200 angstroms of rhodium undercoated with
about 1500 angstroms of chromium, and with the chromium being disposed
between the rhodium layer and the glass surface so as to serve as an
adhesion promoter layer such as is described in U.S. application Ser. No.
08/238,521 filed May 5, 1994, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,668,663, the disclosure
of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein) for the rear
substrate (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate faced one
another), with the clear front glass having a sheet resistance of about
15 ohms per square and the rear multi-layered reflector coated glass
having a sheet resistance of about 5 ohms per square. The dimensions of
the mirror assemblies were about 3.5''×7.5''×105 μm, with
a weather barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 105
μm also applied.

[0631]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 34(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0632]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0633]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 34(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 34(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 80° C. for about 2 hours whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ the solid polymer matrix film inside
the mirror.

[0634]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0635]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0636]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 56.3% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.0% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 55% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was 1.2 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0637]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 50% reflectance in a response time of about 5.8 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 35

[0638]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0639]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 1.09% HUVPF6 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.58%
EVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.59%
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 89.34% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 0.84% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 2.88% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.65% Uvinul N
35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0640]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0641]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier, of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0642]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 35(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0643]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0644]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 35(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 35(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

[0645]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0646]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0647]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 72.1% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.3% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.0 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectonmeter described in Example 1,
supra.

[0648]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 7.9 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 36

[0649]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0650]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.3% HHVPF6 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.96%
EVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.59%
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 84.13% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 1.38% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 7.96% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.01% T-9 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.67% Uvinul N
35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0651]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0652]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the minor assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0653]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 36(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0654]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0655]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 36(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the minor assemblies of Example 36(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 80° C. for about 2 hours whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ the solid polymer matrix film inside
the mirror.

[0656]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0657]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this minor to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0658]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 69.9%; reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 8.0% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.1 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0659]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 5.2 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 37

[0660]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0661]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.65% HUVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.77%
EVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.59%
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 89.57% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 0.79% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 2.94% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.66% Uvinul N
35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0662]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0663]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0664]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 37(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0665]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0666]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 37(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 37(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

[0667]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0668]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0669]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 74.0% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.5% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.0 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0670]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 6.2 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 38

[0671]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0672]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.52% HUEVC104 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.77%
EVC104 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.59%
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 88.75% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 0.93% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 3.74% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.67% Uvinul N
35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0673]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0674]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0675]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 38(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0676]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0677]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 38(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 38(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

[0678]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0679]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0680]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 72.9% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.1% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.0 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0681]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 5.4 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 39

[0682]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0683]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.3% HHVPF6 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.96%
EVC104 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.49%
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), and about
0.13% THAc having been previously reduced by contacting with zinc (U.S.
Pat. No. 5,500,760 issued Mar. 19, 1996 the disclosure of which is
incorporated by reference herein) (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 85.34% propylene
carbonate and about 0.91% acetic acid (as plasticizer) and, in
combination as a monomer component, about 1.59% HDT (an isocyanate) and
about 5.42% Lexorez 1931-50 (a polyol), and about 0.19% T-9 (a tin
catalyst), and about 4.67% Uvinul N 35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly
mixed this monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of
the components was achieved.

[0684]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0685]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0686]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 39(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0687]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0688]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 39(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 39(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 80° C. for about 2 hours whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ, the solid polymer matrix film inside
the mirror.

[0689]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0690]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0691]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 67.4% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 6.6% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 65% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.5 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0692]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 8.3 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 40

[0693]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0694]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.3% HHVPF6 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.97%
EVC104 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.59%
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 89.71% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 0.65% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 3.08% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.03% T-9 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.67% Uvinul N
35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0695]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0696]In this example, we assembled exterior automotive mirrors using
clear HW-ITO glass for the front substrate and chromium metal coated
glass for the rear substrate (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with the clear front glass having a sheet
resistance of about 15 ohms per square and the rear chrome glass having a
sheet resistance of 5 ohms per square. The dimensions of the mirror
assemblies were about 3.5''×7.5''×105 μm, with a weather
barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also
applied.

[0697]We placed into these exterior mirror assemblies the electrochromic
monomer composition of Example 40(A), supra, using the vacuum back
filling technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0698]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0699]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 40(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 40(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 80° C. for about 2 hours whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ the solid polymer matrix film inside
the mirror.

[0700]D. Use of Exterior Electrochromic Mirror

[0701]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0702]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 52.7% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 6.4%; when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from high
reflectance to about 23% when that potential was applied thereto was
about 1.6 seconds. We made this determination by the reflectometer
described in Example 1, supra.

[0703]We also observed that the mirror bleached from low reflectance to
about 40%, reflectance in a response time of about 6.9 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

[0705]To demonstrate the electrical stability of the mirror assemblies of
Example 40(B and C), supra, we applied 1.4 volts and continuously colored
the electrochromic mirrors for at least about 300 hours at room
temperature. We observed that the high reflectance changed from 52.7% to
52.2% and the low reflectance remained unchanged at 6.4% after the
continuous coloration test. We observed that the response time for
reflectance to change from high reflectance to about 23% changed from 1.6
seconds to 2.0 seconds after the continuous coloration test and also that
the response time for the mirror to bleach from low reflectance to about
40% reflectance remained steady at about 6.9 seconds before and after the
continuous coloration test.

[0706]To demonstrate the cyclability of the mirror assemblies of Example
40(B and C), supra, we applied 1.4 volts and continuously colored the
electrochromic mirrors for at least about 300 hours at room temperature.

[0707]To demonstrate the cycle stability of the electrochromic mirrors
assemblies of Example 40(B and C), supra, we subjected the electrochromic
mirrors to 20 seconds color--20 seconds bleach cycles at different test
temperatures required by automotive specifications. We observed good
cycle stability after about 80,000 cycles which include about 30,000
cycles at 70° C., and about 50,000 cycles at room temperature. We
observed, that the high reflectance of the mirror at the center portion
of the mirror changed from 53.22 to 51.1% and that the low reflectance
changed from 6.5% to 7.1% after the cycle test. We also observed that the
response time for reflectance change from high reflectance to about 23%
remained constant at about 1.9 seconds after the cycle test and the
response time for reflectance change from low reflectance to about 40%
changed from 5.7 seconds to 5.5 seconds after the cycle test.

Example 41

[0708]In this example, we chose to illustrate the beneficial properties
and characteristics of the polychromic solid films manufactured within
electrochromic glazings, or that may be used as small area transmissive
devices, such as optical filters and the like.

[0709]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0710]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.37% HUVPF6 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.96%
EVC104(as a cathodic compound), about 0.59%
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed, in a combination of about 89.65% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 0.65% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 3.08% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.67% Uvinul N
35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0711]B. Glazing Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0712]In this example, we assembled electrochromic glazings from clear TEC
15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate
faced one another), with the glass having a sheet resistance of about 15
ohms per square. The dimensions of the glazing assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0713]We placed into these glazing assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 41(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0714]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Glazing to Polychromic Solid Film

[0715]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 41(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the glazing assemblies of Example 41(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 80° C. for about 2 hours whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ the solid polymer matrix film inside
the glazing assemblies.

[0716]D. Use of Electrochromic Glazing

[0717]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic glazings of Example 41(B and C), supra. We observed that
the electrochromic glazings colored rapidly and uniformly to a gray color
with greenish hue.

[0718]In addition, we observed that the high transmission at the center
portion of the glazing was about 77.1% transmission which decreased to a
low transmission of about 10.3% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for transmission to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was 4 seconds. We made
this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1, supra.

[0719]We also observed that the glazing bleached from about 10%
transmission to about 70% transmission in a response time of about 7.7
seconds under about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to
be uniform.

Example 42

[0720]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0721]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.3% DVAVPF6 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.15%
EVC104 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.69%
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 86.63% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 0.93% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 5.59% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.05% dibutyltin dilaurate (a tin catalyst), and about
4.66% Uvinul N 35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0722]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0723]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0724]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 42(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0725]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0726]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 42(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 42(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 60° C. for about 1 hour whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ the solid polymer matrix film inside
the mirror.

[0727]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0728]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0729]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 68.0% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 6.7%, when about 1.2 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 60% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.4 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0730]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10, reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 5.7 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 43

[0731]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0732]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 2.18% HUVPF6 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.58%
5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 88.87% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 1.3% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 2.41% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.63% Uvinul N
35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0733]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0734]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0735]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 43(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0736]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0737]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 43(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 43(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 80° C. for about 1 hour whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ, the solid polymer matrix film inside
the mirror.

[0738]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0739]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0740]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 71.2% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 12.5% when about 1.2 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 5.3 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0741]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 15% reflectance
to about 50% reflectance in a response time of about 12.0 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 44

[0742]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0743]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.66% HVSS (as a cathodic compound), about 1.52% EVCl04
(as a cathodic compound), about 0.17% ferrocene (as an anodic compound),
about 0.74% phenothiazine (as an anodic compound) all homogeneously
dispersed in a combination of about 87.6% propylene carbonate (as
plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component, about 4.61%
dipentaerythritol pentaacrylate. We also added about 0.09%
1,1'-azobiscyclohexanecarbonitrile (as an initiator), about 4.61% Uvinul
N 35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0744]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0745]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
HW-ITO glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×125 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 125 μm also applied.

[0746]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 44(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0747]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0748]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 44(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 44(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 80° C. for about 2 hour whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ the solid polymer matrix film inside
the mirror.

[0749]D. Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0750]We applied a potential of about 1.3 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with bluish hue.

[0751]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 65% reflectance which decreased to a low
reflectance of about 6% when about 1.3 volts was applied to thereto. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra. We noted that the response time to color and also the response
time to bleach the mirror was suitable for use in a vehicle.

Example 45

[0752]Synthesis of Ferrocene-Polyol:

##STR00031##

[0753]We prepared ferrocene-polyol through copolymerization of vinyl
ferrocene (VFE), hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) and methyl methacrylate
(MMA) according to the following procedure: We prepared a reaction
mixture comprising about 1 gm VFE, about 0.25 gm HEA, about 10.0 gm MMA
and about 0.33 gm 1.1'-azobiscyclohexanecarbonitrile (an initiator), all
homogeneously dispersed in toluene and placed it in a glass container. We
thoroughly purged the reaction mixture with oxygen-free nitrogen gas. We
then sealed the glass container and heated the reaction mixture in an
oven maintained at about 80° C. for about 75 hours. We then
allowed the reaction mixture to cool to room temperature and poured it
into a large quantity of heptane to isolate the ferrocene-polyol. We then
purified the yellow solid by reprecipitation from heptane. We used the
resulting ferrocene-polyol prepolymer that includes ferrocene (an anodic
compound) and reactive hydroxyl functionalities to prepare electrochromic
monomer compositions. Thus one embodiment of this invention uses
electrochromic monomer compositions comprising at least one
ferrocene-polyol (as an anodic compound) and at least one cathodic
electrochromic compound. The composition may also include other anodic
compounds and plasticizers as desired.

[0754]We also prepared other ferrocene-polyols by using different weight
ratios of monomers, VFE:HEA:MMA, using the same procedure. In addition
other ferrocene-polyols are prepared from monomer mixtures such as
caprolactone acrylate & methyl methacrylate and hydroxyethyl methacrylate
& methyl methacrylate, each in combination with vinyl ferrocene as a
comonomer by using similar procedures.

Example 46

[0755]Synthesis of polymethyl methacrylate-polyol:

##STR00032##

[0756]We prepared polymethyl methcrylate containing reactive hydroxyl
functionalities through copolymerization of hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA)
and methyl methacrylate (MMA.) according to the following procedure: We
prepared a reaction mixture comprising about 0.25 gm HEA, about 10.0 gm
MMA and about 0.3 μm 1.1'-azobiscyclohexanecarbonitrile (an
initiator), all homogeneously dispersed in toluene and placed it in a
glass container. We thoroughly purged the reaction mixture with
oxygen-free nitrogen gas. We then sealed the glass container and heated
the reaction mixture in an oven maintained at about 80° C. for
about 75 hours. We then allowed the reaction mixture to cool to room
temperature and poured it into a large quantity of heptane to isolate the
polymethyl methacrylate-polyol. We then purified the white solid by
reprecipitation from heptane. We used the resulting polymethyl
methacrylate-polyol prepolymer that contains reactive hydroxyl
functionalities to prepare the electrochromic monomer compositions.

[0757]We also prepared other polymethyl methacrylate-polyols by using
different weight ratios of monomers, HEA:MMA, using the same procedure.

Example 47

[0758]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0759]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.80% HUVC104 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.87%
EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.10% Ferrocene-Polyol (as an
anodic compound), about 0.09% Ferrocene (as an anodic compound), about
0.49% 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 88.5% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 0.89% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 2.60% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.014% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.60% Uvinul N
35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0760]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0761]In this example, we assembled exterior automotive mirrors using
HW-ITO glass for the front substrate and a multi-layer metal reflector
coated glass (consisting of about 200 angstroms of rhodium undercoated
with about 1500 angstroms of chromium, and with the chromium being
disposed between the rhodium layer and the glass surface so as to serve
as an adhesion promoter layer such as is described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,668,663 and US Pat. No. 5,724,187, the disclosures of which are hereby
incorporated by reference herein) for the rear substrate (where the
conductive surface of each glass substrate faced one another), with the
clear front glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per square
and the rear multi-layered reflector coated glass having a sheet
resistance of about 5 ohms per square. The dimensions of the mirror
assemblies were about 5.0''×8.0''×125 μm, with a weather
barrier of an epoxy resin coupled with an anhydride curing agent and
spacers of about 125 μm also applied.

[0762]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 47(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0763]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0764]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 47(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 47(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 80° C. for about 2 hours whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ the solid polymer matrix film inside
the mirror.

Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0765]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a green color with bluish hue.

[0766]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 64.5% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 5.4% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 60% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was 3.2 seconds. We
made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0767]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 50% reflectance in a response time of about 10.4 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 48

[0768]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0769]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.80% HUVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.87%
EVClO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.10% Ferrocene-Polyol (as an
anodic compound), about 0.09% Ferrocene (as an anodic compound), about
0.49% 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 57.6%
tertraethyleneglycol dimethylether and about 31.0% tetramethylenesulfone
(as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component, about 0.89%
HDT (an isocyanate) and about 2.60% Lexorez 1931-50 (a polyol), and about
0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.60% Uvinul N 35 (a UV
stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to ensure that
a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0770]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0771]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×88 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin
coupled with an imidazole curing agent and spacers of about 88 μm also
applied.

[0772]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 48(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0773]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0774]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 48(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 48(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0775]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0776]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 74.1% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 8.3% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 2.0 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0777]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 11.4 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 49

[0778]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0779]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.80% HUVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about
0.87%--EVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.10% Ferrocene-Polyol
(as an anodic compound), about 0.09% Ferrocene (as an anodic compound),
about 0.49% 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound),
all homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 83.9% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 1.44% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 5.84% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), 0.82% polymethyl
methacrylate-polyol and about 4.60% Uvinul N 35 (a UV stabilizer). We
thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous
dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0780]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0781]In this example, we assembled exterior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
3.5''×5''×125 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin
coupled with spacers of about 125 μm also applied.

[0782]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 49(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0783]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0784]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 49(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 49(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0785]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0786]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 72.3% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 6.8% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 4.5 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0787]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 11.8 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 50

[0788]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0789]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 1.0% HUVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.57%
EVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.78% Ferrocene-Polyol (as an
anodic compound), about 0.03% Ferrocene (as an anodic compound), about
0.39% 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 89.4% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 1.06% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 2.2% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.60 Uvinul N 35
(a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to ensure
that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0790]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0791]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0792]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 50(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0793]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0794]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 50(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 50(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0795]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with bluish hue.

[0796]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 73.9% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.1%--when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 1.7 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0797]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 9.0 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 51

[0798]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0799]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.64% HUVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.76%
EVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.56% Ferrocene-Polyol (as an
anodic compound), about 0.03% Ferrocene (as an anodic compound), about
0.39% 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 88.9% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 1.05% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 2.2% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.60% Uvinul N
35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to
ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0800]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0801]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0802]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 51(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0803]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0804]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 51(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 51(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0805]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0806]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 73.6% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.5% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 1.8 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0807]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 6.7 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 52

[0808]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0809]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.60% HUPPVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.11%
PPVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.59% DMPA (as an anodic
compound), all homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 88.75%
propylene carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer
component, about 0.93% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 3.74% Lexorez
1931-50 (a polyol), and about 0.03% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.67%
Uvinul N 35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0810]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0811]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0812]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 52(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0813]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0814]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 52(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 52(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0815]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0816]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 71.8% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 7.4% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. The response time for reflectance to change from about 70% to
about 20% when that potential was applied thereto was about 1.9 seconds.
We made this determination by the reflectometer described in Example 1,
supra.

[0817]We also observed that the mirror bleached from about 10% reflectance
to about 60% reflectance in a response time of about 6.2 seconds under
about a zero applied potential. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 53

[0818]In this example, we chose to illustrate the beneficial properties
and characteristics of the polychromic solid films manufactured within
electrochromic glazings, or that may be used as small area transmissive
devices, such as optical filters and the like.

[0819]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0820]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 1.12% HUVPF6 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.67%
EVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 3.85% Ferrocene-polyol (as an
anodic compound), about 0.30% Ferrocene (as an anodic compound), all
homogeneously dispersed in a combination of about 85.32% propylene
carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in combination as a monomer component,
about 1.01% HDT (an isocyanate) and about 2.39% Lexorez 1931-50 (a
polyol), and about 0.85% polymethyl methacrylate and about 0.013% T-1 (a
tin catalyst), and about 4.48% Uvinul N 35 (a UV stabilizer). We
thoroughly mixed this monomer composition to ensure that a homogeneous
dispersion of the components was achieved.

[0821]B. Glazing Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0822]In this example, we assembled electrochromic glazings from clear TEC
15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate
faced one another), with the glass having a sheet resistance of about 15
ohms per square. The dimensions of the glazing assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0823]We placed into these glazing assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 53(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0824]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Glazing to Polychromic Solid Film

[0825]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 53(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the glazing assemblies of Example 53(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 80° C. for about 2 hours whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ the solid polymer matrix film inside
the glazing assemblies.

Use of Electrochromic Glazing

[0826]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic glazings of Example 53(B and C), supra. We observed that
the electrochromic glazings colored rapidly and uniformly to a gray color
with greenish hue.

[0827]In addition, we observed that the high transmission at the center
portion of the glazing was about 71.3% transmission which decreased to a
low transmission of about 13.2% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. We made this determination by the reflectometer described in
Example 1, supra. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 54

[0828]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0829]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 2.13% HUVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), 7.31%
Ferrocene-polyol (as an anodic compound), all homogeneously dispersed in
a combination of about 82.0% propylene carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in
combination as a monomer component, about 1.57% HDT (an isocyanate) and
about 1.88% Lexorez 1931-50 (a polyol), and about 0.82% polymethyl
methacrylate, and about 0.013% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.31%
Uvinul N 35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0830]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0831]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions. of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''×10''×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy
resin coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0832]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 54(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0833]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0834]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 54(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 54(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the Monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0835]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0836]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 70.8% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 9.6% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. We made this determination by the reflectometer described in
Example 1, supra. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 55

[0837]In this example, we chose to illustrate the beneficial properties
and characteristics of the polychromic solid films manufactured within
electrochromic glazings, or that may be used as small area transmissive
devices, such as optical filters and the like.

[0838]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0839]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.80% HUVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.87%
EVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.10% Ferrocene-polyol (as an
anodic compound), about 0.086% Ferrocene (as an anodic compound), about
0.49% DMPA (as an anodic compound), all homogeneously dispersed in a
combination of about 24.16% propylene carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in
combination as a monomer component, about 9.70% HDT (an isocyanate) and
about 58.0% Lexorez 1931-50 (a polyol), and about 0.23% polymethyl
methacrylate and about 0.014% T-I (a tin catalyst), and about 4.60%
Uvinul N 35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0840]B. Glazing Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0841]In this example, we assembled electrochromic glazings from clear TEC
15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass substrate
faced one another), with the glass having a sheet resistance of about 15
ohms per square. The dimensions of the glazing assemblies were about
3.0''×10''×150 μm.

[0843]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Glazing to Polychromic Solid Film

[0844]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 55(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the glazing assemblies of Example 55(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies in an electrically heated convection oven
maintained at about 80° C. for about 2 hours whereupon the monomer
composition reacted to form in situ the solid polymer matrix film inside
the glazing assemblies.

Use of Electrochromic Glazing

[0845]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic glazings of Example 55(B and C), supra. We observed that
the electrochromic glazings colored rapidly and uniformly to a gray color
with greenish hue.

[0846]In addition, we observed that the high transmission at the center
portion of the glazing was about 70.8%, transmission which decreased to a
low transmission of about 12.9% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. We made this determination by the reflectometer described in
Example 1, supra. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

Example 56

[0847]A. Preparation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0848]We prepared an electrochromic monomer composition comprising by
weight about 0.80% HUVlO4 (as a cathodic compound), about 0.87%
EVCl04 (as a cathodic compound), about 1.10% Ferrocene-polyol (as an
anodic compound), about 0.086% Ferrocene (as an anodic compound), about
0.49% DMPA (as an anodic compound), all homogeneously dispersed in a
combination of about 24.16% propylene carbonate (as plasticizer) and, in
combination as a monomer component, about 9.70% HDT (an isocyanate) and
about 58.0% Lexorez 1931-50 (a polyol), and about 0.23% polymethyl
methacrylate and about 0.014% T-1 (a tin catalyst), and about 4.60%
Uvinul N 35 (a UV stabilizer). We thoroughly mixed this monomer
composition to ensure that a homogeneous dispersion of the components was
achieved.

[0849]B. Mirror Assembly with Electrochromic Monomer Composition

[0850]In this example, we assembled interior automotive mirrors from
TEC-15 glass substrates (where the conductive surface of each glass
substrate faced one another), with both the clear, front glass and the
silvered, rear glass having a sheet resistance of about 15 ohms per
square. The dimensions of the mirror assemblies were about
2.5''-xion×105 μm, with a weather barrier of an epoxy resin
coupled with spacers of about 105 μm also applied.

[0851]We placed into these mirror assemblies the electrochromic monomer
composition of Example 56(A), supra, using the vacuum back filling
technique (as described in Varaprasad III, supra).

[0852]C. Transformation of Electrochromic Monomer Composition within
Mirror to Polychromic Solid Film

[0853]Once the electrochromic monomer composition of Example 56(A), supra,
was uniformly applied within the mirror assemblies of Example 56(B),
supra, we placed the assemblies overnight at room temperature during
which time the monomer composition reacted to form in situ the solid
polymer matrix film inside the mirror. These mirror assemblies were then
placed in an electrically heated convection oven maintained at about
80° C. for about 2 hours.

Use of Electrochromic Mirror

[0854]We applied a potential of about 1.4 volts to one of the
electrochromic mirrors, and observed this mirror to color rapidly and
uniformly to a gray color with greenish hue.

[0855]In addition, we observed that the high reflectance at the center
portion of the mirror was about 69.7% reflectance which decreased to a
low reflectance of about 8.7% when about 1.4 volts was applied to
thereto. We made this determination by the reflectometer described in
Example 1, supra. We noted the bleaching to be uniform.

[0856]While we have provided the above examples of the foregoing invention
for illustrative purposes employing preferred electrochromic compounds,
monomer components and plasticizers, and other components it is to be
understood that variations and equivalents of each of the prepared
electrochromic monomer compositions identified herein will provide
suitable, if not comparable, results when viewed in connection with the
results gleaned from these examples. Without undue experimentation, those
of ordinary skill in the art will find it readily apparent to prepare
polychromic solid film with the beneficial properties and characteristics
desirable for the specific application armed with the teaching herein
disclosed. And, it is intended that such equivalents be encompassed by
the claims which follow hereinafter.